Skip to main content

Is Diprolene available over-the-counter (OTC)?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Dec 13, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

No, Diprolene is not available as an over-the-counter (OTC) product. Diprolene (augmented betamethasone dipropionate) is a super-high potency topical corticosteroid (“steroid”) medication used on the skin and it requires a prescription from your healthcare provider. This medicine can be absorbed through the skin and lead to dangerous side effects if not used as directed.

Diprolene (augmented betamethasone dipropionate) comes as a very strong ointment used to treat the inflammation, swelling, crusting or itching caused by skin conditions that are responsive to topical corticosteroids such as eczema, dermatitis, plaque psoriasis and serious allergic reactions. You can buy it as a generic option, if you prefer, which may save you money.

Topical corticosteroids work by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain, redness, and itching. The only available over-the-counter corticosteroid available in the U.S. is hydrocortisone 1%, but it is a much weaker topical steroid than Diprolene. Do not substitute an over-the-counter topical steroid for a prescription one unless approved by your doctor.

Common brand names for prescription betamethasone dipropionate include:

Common brand names for prescription betamethasone valerate include:

References

Read next

What does psoriasis look like?

Psoriasis typically appears as a red, dry, and flaky patch of skin, and may be covered with white scales called plaques. It can occur on any area of the body, including hands, feet, elbows, scalp or genitals. Psoriasis can feel itchy, sore, burning and the skin may feel tight, crack or bleed. Frequent itching can lead to thicker areas of plaques. Continue reading

How does Ilumya work to treat psoriasis?

Ilumya works by binding selectively to interleukin-23 (IL-23) which is a naturally occurring cytokine. IL-23 plays a key role in promoting inflammation and regulating other cytokines (such as IL-17) and inflammatory substances, such as TNF-α3-7. By blocking the effects of IL-23, Ilumya helps control the release of IL-17 and TNF-α, which reduces inflammation associated with psoriasis. It also decreases how many inflammatory cells are present within psoriatic lesions, helps prevent plaque formation, and resolves tissue damage. Continue reading

What's a good prednisone taper schedule?

The best prednisone taper will depend upon how long you have been taking the medicine, your dose, and why you are being treated. If you've been treated with a high dose of prednisone, or taken it for more than a few weeks, you will need to slowly stop your medicine, usually over a period of days, weeks or months. Your healthcare provider will determine your prednisone tapering schedule. Continue reading

See also:

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups