Endocrinology · Corticosteroid
Betamethasone (antenatal)
Dose
12 mg IM, two doses 24 h apart, between 24⁺⁰ and 34⁺⁶ weeks when preterm birth expected within 7 days.
Use
Fetal lung maturation — reduces RDS, IVH and neonatal mortality.
Monitoring
Maternal glucose (especially diabetics), infection signs, fetal wellbeing.
Side effects
- • Maternal hyperglycaemia
- • Transient leucocytosis
- • Reduced fetal movement for 24 h
Related in WardRound
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
