Betamethasone is a corticosteroid. The mechanism of action of betamethasone is as a corticosteroid hormone receptor agonist. Betamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid with metabolic, immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activities. Betamethasone binds to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and subsequently binds to dna to modify gene expression. The synthesis of certain anti-inflammatory proteins is induced while the synthesis of certain inflammatory mediators is inhibited. As a result, there is an overall reduction in chronic inflammation and autoimmune reactions.
A glucocorticoid given orally, parenterally, by local injection, by inhalation, or applied topically in the management of various disorders in which corticosteroids are indicated. Its lack of mineralocorticoid properties makes betamethasone particularly suitable for treating cerebral edema and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Betamethasone Is A White To Off-White Solid. It Is Soluble In Methanol With Melting Range Of 231°C To 234°C.
Synonyms
(8s,9r,10s,11s,13s,14s,16s,17r)-9-fluoro-11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13,16-trimethyl-6,7,8,11,12,14,15,16-octahy drocyclopenta [a]phenanthren-3-one