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Potent corticosteroid + keratolytic

Betamethasone with salicylic acid

Brand names: Diprosalic

A topical fixed-combination ointment of the potent corticosteroid betamethasone with the keratolytic salicylic acid, used for hyperkeratotic, scaly inflammatory skin conditions such as plaque psoriasis and lichenified eczema.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Betamethasone suppresses inflammation and epidermal proliferation, while salicylic acid softens and removes scale, improving penetration of the corticosteroid into thickened plaques.

Prescribing in practice

  • Avoid application over large body-surface areas, as systemic salicylate absorption (salicylism) can occur, particularly in children, and combined with the potent steroid raises adrenal-suppression risk.
  • Avoid the face and flexures and prolonged uninterrupted use, which risks skin atrophy.
  • Use with caution in patients with extensive psoriasis and do not apply to broken or weeping skin.

Monitoring

Reassess plaques after a defined course and limit the duration and surface area treated to minimise both salicylate absorption and corticosteroid effects.

Counselling the patient

  • Apply only to the thickened, scaly patches as directed and not over large areas of skin.
  • Do not use airtight dressings unless specifically advised.

Evidence & guidelines

Cautions on salicylate absorption and corticosteroid potency reflect the SPC and standard psoriasis management guidance.

Reference: NICE CG153; BAD; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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