MICO-B CREAM (Each tube contains: Betamethasone Dipropionate/ Miconazole 0.05%w/w/ 2%w/v)
Betamethasone Dipropionate/ Miconazole
What it does
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
Commonly used for: inflammation, allergic reactions, skin conditions, certain autoimmune diseases
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:33:06 · updated 2026-05-01 08:00:20
Drug Interactions
83Pharmacodynamic Warnings
Betamethasone appears in TABLE 17: Drugs that reduce serum potassium
Severe (6)
Antihistamines,non-Sedating - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to antihistamines, non-sedating (mizolastine). Avoid.
Ergometrine - increases exposure
Miconazoleispredictedtoincreasetheexposureto ergometrine.Avoid.oTheoretical
Ergotamine - increases exposure
Miconazoleispredictedtoincreasetheexposureto ergotamine.Avoid.oTheoretical
Mifamurtide - decreases efficacy
Corticosteroidsarepredictedtodecreasetheefficacyof mifamurtide.Avoid.rTheoretical
Mizolastine - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to antihistamines, non-sedating (mizolastine). Avoid.
Oral Benzodiazepines - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to oral benzodiazepines (midazolam). Avoid.
Moderate (51)
Alfentanil - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to opioids (alfentanil). Use with caution and adjust dose.
Alkylating Agents - increases concentration
Miconazole is predicted to increase the concentration of alkylating agents (busulfan). Use with caution and adjust dose.
Alprazolam - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to benzodiazepines (alprazolam). Use with caution and adjust dose.
Amlodipine - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to calcium channel blockers (amlodipine, felodipine, lacidipine, lercanidipine, nicardipine, nifedipine, nimodipine, verapamil). Use with caution and a
Antiarrhythmics - increases exposure
Miconazole is predicted to increase the exposure to antiarrhythmics (disopyramide). Use with caution and adjust dose.
Unknown (26)
Aminoglycosides - decreases exposure
Miconazole potentially decreases the exposure to aminoglycosides (tobramycin).
Aspirin - decreases concentration
Corticosteroids are predicted to decrease the concentration of aspirin (high-dose) and aspirin (high-dose) increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when given with corticosteroids.
Betamethasone - increases exposure
Cobicistat is predicted to increase the exposure to corticosteroids (betamethasone, budesonide, ciclesonide, deflazacort, dexamethasone, fludrocortisone, fluticasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolon
Betamethasone - increases exposure
Idelalisib is predicted to increase the exposure to corticosteroids (betamethasone, budesonide, ciclesonide, deflazacort, dexamethasone, fludrocortisone, fluticasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolon
Betamethasone - increases exposure
Clarithromycin is predicted to increase the exposure to corticosteroids (betamethasone, budesonide, ciclesonide, deflazacort, dexamethasone, fludrocortisone, fluticasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednis
Data from BNF 85 (British National Formulary). This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Matched via: exact
About betamethasone
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
What it treats
- inflammation
- allergic reactions
- skin conditions
- certain autoimmune diseases
How it works
It works by decreasing inflammation and modifying the body's immune response.
Who it's for
It is for adults and children who need treatment for conditions involving inflammation or an overactive immune system.
Drug class
Corticosteroids
Cautions
- • Be cautious if you are taking medications that lower potassium levels in the blood.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About miconazole
Miconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections on the skin and in the mouth.
What it treats
- fungal infections of the skin
- oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth)
How it works
It works by stopping the growth of fungi, helping to clear the infection.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults and children who have fungal infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Betamethasone
BNF-referencedBetamethasone is a potent corticosteroid with high glucocorticoid activity and minimal mineralocorticoid effects, used primarily to suppress inflammation and manage allergic conditions.
Indications
- Suppression of inflammatory disorders
- Management of allergic conditions
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Inflammatory and allergic eye conditions
Dosage
Children: For children aged 1–11 months: Initially 1 mg, repeated up to 4 times in 24 hours according to response. Aged 1–5 years: Initially 2 mg, repeated up to 4 times in 24 hours according to response. Aged 6–11 years: Initially 4 mg, repeated up to 4 times in 24 hours according to response. Aged 12–17 years: 4–20 mg, repeated up to 4 times in 24 hours according to response.
Adults: Dosage varies based on condition; typically, initial doses are adjusted according to the patient's response and severity of condition.
Mechanism of action
Betamethasone exerts its effects by binding to glucocorticoid receptors, leading to modulation of gene expression and suppression of inflammatory cytokines and mediators.
Pharmacodynamics
Betamethasone reduces inflammation and immune response, which is beneficial in managing various inflammatory and allergic disorders.
Pharmacokinetics
Betamethasone is rapidly absorbed after administration, with a long half-life allowing for once-daily dosing in many cases. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in urine.
Adverse effects
- Hiccups
- Oedema
- Mood and behaviour changes
- Vision disorders
- Serious gastro-intestinal effects
- Musculoskeletal effects
- Ophthalmic effects
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Myocardial rupture (following recent myocardial infarction)
Interactions
- Cobicistat + betamethasone: Unknown (increases exposure)
- Idelalisib + betamethasone: Unknown (increases exposure)
- Clarithromycin + betamethasone: Unknown (increases exposure)
Precautions
- Immunosuppression due to prolonged corticosteroid treatment
- Adrenal suppression if given for longer than 3 weeks
- Increased susceptibility to infections, including chickenpox and measles
Pregnancy
Readily crosses the placenta. Transient effect on fetal movements and heart rate.
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light.
Formulations
- Betamethasone sodium phosphate 4 mg per 1 ml solution for injection ampoules
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: Miconazole
BNF-referencedMiconazole is an azole antifungal agent utilized for the treatment of various fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species. It acts primarily by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes, thereby compromising the integrity and function of the fungal cell. Miconazole can be administered topically, orally, or intravaginally, making it versatile for treating conditions such as oropharyngeal candidiasis, vaginal candidiasis, and superficial skin infections.
Indications
- Vaginal candidiasis
- Oropharyngeal candidiasis
- Vulvovaginal infections
- Superficial fungal infections
Dosage
Adults: For vaginal candidiasis, miconazole cream is typically applied twice daily, using 5 g inserted into the vagina for 7 days. For oropharyngeal candidiasis, the oral gel is usually administered as 2.5 mL four times a day.
Mechanism of action
Miconazole primarily acts through the inhibition of the CYP450 14α-lanosterol demethylase enzyme, leading to disrupted ergosterol production in fungal cell membranes. This disruption results in increased cell membrane permeability and leakage of essential cellular constituents. Additionally, miconazole inhibits fungal peroxidase and catalase, increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which contribute to fungal cell death. Miconazole also elevates intracellular levels of farnesol, which disrupts quorum sensing in Candida, preventing the transition to more virulent forms.
Pharmacodynamics
Miconazole is predominantly applied topically, leading to minimal systemic absorption. Its primary adverse reactions are usually localized to hypersensitivity reactions, with the potential for anaphylaxis in rare cases. Patients using intravaginal miconazole are advised to avoid reliance on other contraceptive methods and not to use tampons simultaneously due to the risk of altered vaginal flora.
Pharmacokinetics
Miconazole is poorly absorbed when applied topically or intravaginally, resulting in low systemic exposure. The pharmacokinetics of miconazole can vary based on the route of administration, but systemic absorption is generally low, thus limiting systemic side effects and interactions. Miconazole is extensively metabolized in the liver, and its metabolites are excreted primarily through the urine.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to miconazole or any of its excipients
- Recent arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g. angina, myocardial infarction)
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
- Oestrogen-dependent tumors (e.g. breast cancer in first-degree relatives)
- Acute porphyrias
- Severe diabetes (increased risk of heart disease)
Adverse effects
- Dysmenorrhoea
- Skin reactions
- Increased risk of gallbladder disease
- Migraine or migraine-like headaches
- Abdominal pain
- Dysuria
- Nausea
- Pelvic cramps
- Vaginal hemorrhage
- Angioedema
Interactions
- Miconazole + antihistamines (non-sedating): Severe (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + mizolastine: Severe (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + oral benzodiazepines: Severe (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + ergometrine: Severe (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + ergotamine: Severe (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + alkylating agents: Moderate (increases concentration)
- Miconazole + busulfan: Moderate (increases concentration)
- Miconazole + antiarrhythmics: Moderate (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + disopyramide: Moderate (increases exposure)
- Miconazole + benzodiazepines: Moderate (increases exposure)
Precautions
- Caution in patients with history of breast cancer
- Monitor breast status regularly in women on oestrogen therapy
- Risk of endometrial cancer with prolonged use of oestrogens
- Risk of ovarian cancer with long-term use of combined HRT
- Increased risk of venous thromboembolism in women using combined or oestrogen-only HRT
Pregnancy
Pregnant women may require a longer duration of treatment, usually about 7 days, to clear the infection. Caution is advised.
Breast-feeding
Manufacturer advises caution; no specific information available.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: betamethasonedipropionate
Betamethasone dipropionate is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid steroid that is used topically to relieve inflammation and itching associated with various skin conditions. It is a derivative of betamethasone, which has anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and anti-proliferative activities. The drug is commonly utilized in dermatology for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Indications
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Contact dermatitis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information.
Adults: Refer to relevant clinical guidelines or product information for specific dosing instructions.
Mechanism of action
Betamethasone dipropionate exerts its effects by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, leading to the modulation of gene expression. This interaction results in the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules, which reduces inflammation, suppresses the immune response, and promotes vasoconstriction in the affected tissues.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of betamethasone dipropionate include a significant reduction in inflammation and immune response due to the inhibition of leukocyte infiltration at the site of inflammation. The drug also inhibits the release of arachidonic acid, subsequently decreasing the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Its efficacy is enhanced by its high lipid solubility, allowing for better penetration through the skin layers.
Pharmacokinetics
Betamethasone dipropionate is well absorbed through the skin when applied topically. Its bioavailability is influenced by the formulation and the condition of the skin. The drug is metabolized primarily in the liver to inactive metabolites, which are excreted in the urine. The systemic absorption and effects are minimal when used as directed, but caution is advised in extensive applications or occlusive dressings, which may increase absorption.
Adverse effects
- Local skin atrophy
- Striae
- Telangiectasia
- Hypopigmentation
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Systemic effects with prolonged use
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of diabetes mellitus
- Monitor for potential adrenal suppression with prolonged use
- Avoid application to infected areas unless treated
Pregnancy
Betamethasone dipropionate should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Limited data suggest that topical corticosteroids have low systemic absorption.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised when using betamethasone dipropionate during breastfeeding, as it is unknown whether it is excreted in breast milk. Topical corticosteroids should be applied sparingly and avoided on the breast area to minimize ingestion by the infant.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Topical cream
- Topical ointment
- Topical lotion
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: Betamethasone
PubChem CID 9782Molecular formula: C22H29FO5
Mechanism of action
Glucocorticoids inhibit neutrophil apoptosis and demargination, and inhibit NF-Kappa B and other inflammatory transcription factors. They also inhibit phospholipase A2, leading to decreased formation of arachidonic acid derivatives. In addition, glucocorticoids promote anti-inflammatory genes like interleukin-10. Corticosteroids like betamethasone can act through nongenomic and genomic pathways. The genomic pathway is slower and occurs when glucocorticoids activate glucocorticoid receptors and initiate downstream effects that promote transcription of anti-inflammatory genes including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), IL-1-receptor antagonist, and tyrosine amino transferase (TAT). On the other hand, the nongenomic pathway is able to elicit a quicker response by modulating T-cell, platelet and monocyte activity through the use of existing membrane-bound receptors and second messengers. Corticosteroids interact with specific receptor proteins in target tissues to regulate the expression of corticosteroid responsive genes, thereby changing the levels and array of proteins synthesized by the various target tissues. As a consequence of the time required for changes in gene expression and protein synthesis, most effects of corticosteroids are not immediate, but become apparent after several hours. ... Although corticosteroids predominantly act to increase expression of target genes, there are well documented examples where glucocorticoids decrease transcription of target genes ... In contrast to these genomic effects, recent studies have raised the possibility that some actions of corticosteroids are immediate and are mediated by membrane-bound receptors. /Adrenocorticosteroids/ The mechanisms by which glucocorticoids inhibit glucose utilization in peripheral tissues are not fully understood. Glucocorticoids decrease glucose uptake in adipose tissue, skin, fibroblasts, thymocytes, and polymorphonuclear leukocytes; these effects are postulated to result from translocation of the glucose transporters from the plasma membrane to an intracellular location. These peripheral effects are associated with a number of catabolic actions, including atrophy of lymphoid tissue, decreased muscle mass, negative nitrogen balance, and thinning of the skin. /Adrenocorticalsteroids/ The mechanisms by which the glucocorticoids promote gluconeogenesis are not fully defined. Amino acids mobilized from a number of tissues in response to glucocorticoids reach the liver and provide substrate for the production of glucose and glycogen. In the liver, glucocorticoids induce the transcription of a number of enzymes involved in gluconeogenesis and amino acid metabolism, including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, glucose-6-phosphatase, and fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase. Analyses of the molecular basis for regulation of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase gene expression have identified complex regulatory influences involving an interplay among glucocorticoids, insulin, glucagon, and catecholamine. The effects of these hormones and amines on phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase gene expression mirror the complex regulation of gluconeogenesis in the intact organism. /Adrenocorticalsteroids/ ... /A/ major action of corticosteroids on the cardiovascular system is to enhance vascular reactivity to other vasoactive substances. Hypoadrenalism generally is associated with hypotension and reduced response to vasoconstrictors such as norepinephrine and angiotensin II. This diminished pressor response is explained partly by recent studies in experimental systems showing that glucocorticoids increase expression of adrenergic receptors in the vascular wall. Conversely, hypertension is seen in patients with excessive glucocorticoid secretion, occurring in most patients with Cushing's syndrome and in a subset of patients treated with synthetic glucocorticoids (even those lacking any significant mineralocorticoid action). /Adrenocorticosteroids/ For more Mechanism of Action (
Pharmacodynamics
Corticosteroids bind to the glucocorticoid receptor inhibiting pro-inflammatory signals, while promoting anti-inflammatory signals. Corticosteroids have a wide therapeutic window as patients may require doses that are multiples of what the body naturally produces. Patients who require long-term treatment with a corticosteroid should be counselled regarding the risk of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression and increased susceptibility to infections.
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
Molecular reference: Miconazole
PubChem CID 4189Molecular formula: C18H14Cl4N2O
Mechanism of action
Miconazole is an azole antifungal used to treat a variety of conditions, including those caused by _Candida_ overgrowth. Unique among the azoles, miconazole is thought to act through three main mechanisms. The primary mechanism of action is through inhibition of the CYP450 14α-lanosterol demethylase enzyme, which results in altered ergosterol production and impaired cell membrane composition and permeability, which in turn leads to cation, phosphate, and low molecular weight protein leakage. In addition, miconazole inhibits fungal peroxidase and catalase while not affecting NADH oxidase activity, leading to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Increased intracellular ROS leads to downstream pleiotropic effects and eventual apoptosis. Lastly, likely as a result of lanosterol demethylation inhibition, miconazole causes a rise in intracellular levels of farnesol. This molecule participates in quorum sensing in _Candida_, preventing the transition from yeast to mycelial forms and thereby the formation of biofilms, which are more resistant to antibiotics. In addition, farnesol is an inhibitor of drug efflux ABC transporters, namely _Candida_ CaCdr1p and CaCdr2p, which may additionally contribute to increased effectiveness of azole drugs.
Pharmacodynamics
Miconazole is an azole antifungal that functions primarily through inhibition of a specific demethylase within the CYP450 complex. As miconazole is typically applied topically and is minimally absorbed into the systemic circulation following application, the majority of patient reactions are limited to hypersensitivity and cases of anaphylaxis. Patients using intravaginal miconazole products are advised not to rely on contraceptives to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, as well as not to use tampons concurrently.
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.