Drug Interaction Report

Some of the medication in betamethasone topical may be absorbed into the bloodstream following application to your skin. When present in sufficient concentrations in the blood, steroids like betamethasone topical can interfere with blood sugar control and reduce the effectiveness of exenatide and other diabetic medications. Although the absorption of most steroid preparations is limited when used as recommended in the product labeling, absorption may be increased under certain circumstances, such as: when the steroid is strong or highly potent; when the steroid is used for a longer duration; the person being treated is an infant or young child; or the area of skin being treated is large, inflamed, damaged (cut, scraped), thin (like the face), and/or covered with a dressing, wrapping or clothing. Blood sugar should be monitored closely in these situations. You may need a dose adjustment of exenatide and/or other diabetic medications if your blood sugar is affected. Talk to your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency and duration of use when treated with products that contain steroids, including some over-the counter products. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

You should take exenatide twice a day, at any time within the 60 minutes (1 hour) before your morning and evening meals, or before the two main meals of the day, and at least 6 hours or more apart. You may experience decreased absorption of exenatide in the presence of food or other medications. Your other medications should be administered at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after your exenatide injection.