Corticosteroid and Antibiotic combination
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination medicine that contains betamethasone (a steroid that reduces swelling, redness, and itching) and neomycin (an antibiotic that kills bacteria). Together, they treat infections and inflammation in the eyes, ears, or nose.
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, translocating to the nucleus to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production and reduce edema and inflammation, while neomycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, thereby exerting bactericidal activity against susceptible gram-negative and gram-positive organisms.
Eye infections with swelling, ear infections (otitis), red and itchy eyes (conjunctivitis) with bacterial infection, infected nose conditions, inflammation of the eyelids
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Don't double up to make up for the missed dose.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Do not use this medicine for longer than your doctor prescribed, as long-term steroid use in the eye can cause serious problems like glaucoma and cataracts. Buy only from reputable pharmacies and check for known brands like Beta-N, Betasol-N, Betnew, or Aristobet-N to avoid fake products. Do not share your eye/ear drops with anyone else, as this can spread infection.
Avoid using other eye or ear drops at the same time unless your doctor says so; wait at least 5-10 minutes between different drops. Do not use with other aminoglycoside antibiotics (like gentamicin drops) as this can increase the risk of hearing or kidney problems. Tell your doctor if you are using any other steroid medicines.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Betamethasone with your other drugs?
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically prescribes it, as the steroid component can potentially affect your baby.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the container tightly closed after use. Keep out of children's reach. Discard eye/ear drops 4 weeks after first opening.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.