Diprosalic Ointment

Diprosalic Ointment

Diprosalic Ointment Uses

Diprosalic Ointment is used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis and other steroid-responsive dermatoses with scaling.

How does Diprosalic Ointment work?

Diprosalic Ointment contains betamethasone dipropionate and salicylic acid, which work together in two ways:

1. Salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic agent, softening and removing the layer of scales on the skin’s surface, allowing the betamethasone dipropionate to penetrate through to the affected skin beneath.
2. Betamethasone dipropionate, a corticosteroid, is then absorbed into the skin, where it reduces the redness and itching associated with the condition.

Who can use Diprosalic Ointment?

Diprosalic Ointment is suitable for adults and children when prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Don’t use Diprosalic Ointment if you:

• Are allergic to betamethasone dipropionate, salicylic acid or any of the other ingredients
• Have rosacea, acne, dermatitis around the mouth, genital itching, nappy rash, cold sores or chickenpox on the area you intend to treat, as the ointment may aggravate these conditions

Speak to your doctor before use if you:

• Have psoriasis, as your doctor may want to monitor your treatment regularly
• Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding

How To Use Diprosalic Ointment

Diprosalic Ointment should be used as a thin layer applied to the affected skin area and gently rubbed in. Follow the prescribed dosage and use twice daily or as directed by your doctor.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Don’t use on the face for more than 5 days
• Don’t use on large areas of the body for long periods (for example, every day for many weeks or months)
• Don’t use under bandages or plasters
• Avoid getting the ointment in your eyes, nose or mouth
• For children, don’t apply under a nappy, as this increases absorption through the skin

If you’ve been using the ointment for a long time, don’t stop suddenly without speaking to your doctor first. Stopping abruptly can cause redness, stinging or burning. Your doctor will advise you on gradually reducing how often you use it.

Side Effects of Diprosalic Ointment

Like all medicines, Diprosalic Ointment can cause side effects, though not everyone gets them. Most people find that when it’s used correctly, it doesn’t cause any problems.

If the ointment is used more often than directed or on large areas for a long time, the following side effects may occur:

• Thinning of the skin, stinging, blistering, peeling, swelling, itching, burning, rash, dryness or red marks
• Inflammation of the hair follicles, excessive hair growth or reduced skin pigmentation
• Allergic skin reactions or contact dermatitis
• Blurred vision

In adults, using too much ointment over a long period may rarely cause hormonal changes, leading to puffiness or rounding of the face, weakness, tiredness or dizziness when standing or sitting up.

In children, overuse may affect growth and development. Rare effects include puffiness or rounding of the face, a bulging fontanelle in infants, persistent headache or blurred vision.

Steroid Withdrawal Reaction

After prolonged use, some people may experience a withdrawal reaction when stopping treatment or within days to weeks after. This can include redness extending beyond the original area, burning or stinging, intense itching, peeling or oozing sores. Speak to your doctor before stopping treatment.

Stop using Diprosalic Ointment and seek immediate medical attention if you experience blurred vision or other visual disturbances or signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat.

If you notice any side effects not listed here, tell your doctor or pharmacist or report them via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Diprosalic Ointment Ingredients

Active ingredients: Betamethasone dipropionate 0.064% w/w (equivalent to betamethasone 0.5mg per gram) and salicylic acid 30mg per gram (3% w/w)

Other ingredients: Liquid paraffin and white soft paraffin

Warnings and Precautions

• For external use only. Avoid using more ointment than prescribed or for longer than recommended, as this can affect hormone levels, particularly in infants and children.
• Don’t smoke or go near naked flames while using this product. Fabric that has been in contact with the ointment, including clothing and bedding, catches fire more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing may reduce but not fully remove product build-up.
• Contact your doctor if your condition worsens during treatment, as you may be having an allergic reaction, have developed an infection or need a different treatment.
• If your condition returns within 2 weeks of stopping treatment, don’t restart using the ointment without speaking to your doctor first.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Don’t use after the expiry date shown on the tube and carton.
• Store below 25°C.