Synonyms
Betamethasone 17,21-dipropionate;9-Fluoro-16-methyl-11,17,21-trihydroxy-1,4-pregnadiene-3,20-dione17,21-dipropionate
Molecular Formula
C28H37FO7
Smiles
CCC(=O)OCC(=O)[C@]1([C@H](C[C@@H]2[C@@]1(C[C@@H]([C@]3([C@H]2CCC4=CC(=O)C=C[C@@]43C)F)O)C)C)OC(=O)CC
Appearance
White to pale yellow powder
General Description
Betamethasone Dipropionate is a synthetic fluorinated corticosteroid with a double ester (dipropionate) substitution, conferring very high topical potency and enhanced lipophilicity compared to betamethasone base or its monopropionate salt. The dipropionate ester significantly increases the drug's affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor in skin tissue and prolongs its residence time at the site of application.
Mechanism of Action
Betamethasone Dipropionate binds to the intracellular glucocorticoid receptor (GR) with high affinity, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus and modulates transcription of inflammatory and immune response genes. Key anti-inflammatory actions include induction of lipocortin-1 (inhibiting phospholipase A2), suppression of NF-kappaB signaling, downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alpha), and inhibition of eosinophil migration and activation.
Application
Betamethasone Dipropionate is indicated for the topical treatment of severe inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses that are unresponsive to lower-potency corticosteroids, including severe atopic dermatitis, generalized erythrodermic psoriasis, severe allergic contact dermatitis, and autoimmune blistering disorders.
Calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate (Cal/BDP) is a fixed-dose combination for topical psoriasis treatment. Cal modulates keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, while BDP provides potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Together, they act synergistically on key inflammatory pathways, including TNF-α and the IL-23/Th17 axis, and promote Treg/Th2 balance. Clinical studies show Cal/BDP is more efficacious than either monotherapy, with rapid onset (improvements seen within one week) and superior PASI reductions. Efficacy is confirmed across ointment, gel, foam, and cream formulations. The safety profile is favorable, with adverse event rates similar to BDP alone and lower than Cal alone, and low risk of skin atrophy or HPA axis suppression.
Fig. 1 Mechanism of Calcipotriol/Betamethasone Dipropionate for the treatment of psoriasis. (Gisondi P.; et al. 2024)
References
- Gisondi P, et al. Calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate for the treatment of psoriasis: mechanism of action and evidence of efficacy and safety versus topical corticosteroids. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2024, 13(15): 4484.
What is the recommended storage condition for Betamethasone Dipropionate?
It should be stored at controlled room temperature in a well-sealed container, protected from moisture and direct light, to maintain its chemical integrity throughout the shelf life.
What documentation is provided with each batch of Betamethasone Dipropionate?
Each batch is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) covering identity, potency, and relevant purity tests. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available upon request.
Does your company offer custom packaging for Betamethasone Dipropionate?
Yes, custom pack sizes are available. Specific quantity requirements can be discussed directly with our team to align with your production or research scale.
What is the typical application area for Betamethasone Dipropionate in pharmaceutical manufacturing?
It is commonly used as an active ingredient in topical pharmaceutical formulations. Pharmaceutical-grade material suitable for dermatological product development is available.