Corticosteroids are a type of strong prescription drug used to treat a variety of conditions, including allergic reactions, asthma, arthritis and some types of cancer. Corticosteroids work similarly to hormones that occur naturally in the body and function to alleviate inflammation. There are many types of corticosteroids available, including betnesol. Despite its effectiveness, betnesol is not for everyone as it presents several risks for side effects and complications in some patients.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of betnesol are similar to those of most corticosteroids. Many patients taking betnesol describe an increase in appetite, which can lead to weight gain. In addition, patients also frequently report indigestion after meals. Also, many patients taking betnesol tablets experience feelings of restlessness.
Other Side Effects
Betnesol also has the potential to cause a number of other troublesome or annoying, but not dangerous, side effects. Some people experience gastrointestinal side effects from the drug, such as nausea and hiccups, while women sometimes experience changes in their menstruation such as fewer periods or heavy bleeding. The drug can also cause depression, anxiety, confusion and forgetfulness in rare instances. Betnesol can also affect the skin, making it bruise easier or become discolored. Excessive sweating and increased hair growth are also possible side effects.
Drug Interactions
There are some medications that produce unwanted side effects when used in conjunction with betenol. For instance, betenol enhances the action of drugs used to thin the blood, which can cause uncontrollable bleeding in some instances. Using diuretics and beta antagonists can lead to a drop in blood potassium levels or hypokalemia. Complications of hypokalemia include irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and paralysis.
Risks
In addition to minor side effects and the risk of interactions, betnesol has the potential to cause serious medical complications. Because betensol raises blood sugar levels, it has the potential to cause the onset of Type 2 diabetes in patients at risk for the disease. Betnesol also suppresses the immune system, which increases the risk of developing a number of infections such as chickenpox or measles. Like other corticosteroids, betnesol increases the likelihood of stroke and can contribute to the development of a medical condition called Cushing's Syndrome. In rare instances, it causes suicidal thoughts and delusions.
Considerations
You should not discontinue betnesol usage suddenly as doing so may result in damage to your adrenal glands. Because of the potential for serious infection, it is important that you visit your doctor if you experience any signs of illness while taking betnesol. The drug can cause low birth weights and typically is avoided during pregnancy. If you are nursing, you should not take betnesol as the drug is passed through breast milk.
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