Chemical Properties
Betamethasone 17,21-dipropionate is Pale Yellow Foam
Originator
Betnovate,Glaxo,UK,1961
Uses
Betamethasone 17,21-dipropionate is used as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ointment for dermatosis.
Definition
Betamethasone 17,21-dipropionate is a steroid ester that is betamethasone in which the hydroxy hydrogens at positions 17 and 21 are replaced by propanoyl groups. It is used in combination with calcipotriene hydrate, a synthetic vitamin D analogue, for the topical treatment of plaque psoriasi in adult patients.
Manufacturing Process
A solution of 9α-fluoro-11β-hydroxy-16β-methyl-17α,21-(1'-ethyl-1'-
ethoxymethylenedioxy)pregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione (538 mg) in acetic acid
(20 ml), containing 2 drops of water, was allowed to stand at room
temperature for 5 hours. Dilution of the mixture with water gave a white solid
(457 mg) which, after being filtered off and dried, was recrystallized from
acetone to afford 9α-fluoro-11β,21-dihydroxy-16β-methyl-17α-
propionyloxypregna-1,4-diene-3, 20-dione (361 mg), MP 230°-235°C.
Bethmethasone 17-propionate (812 mg) in pyridine (10 ml) was treated with
propionyl chloride (0.21 ml) at 0°C for 1 hour. Dilution with water and
acidification with dilute hydrochloric acid gave the crude diester.
Recrystallization from acetone-petroleum ether afforded betamethasone
17,21-dipropionate (649 mg), MP 117°C (decomposition).
Brand name
Alphatrex (Savage); Diprolene
(Schering).
Therapeutic Function
Glucocorticoid
Biochem/physiol Actions
Betamethasone 17,21-dipropionate is a glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activity.
Safety Profile
Poison by subcutaneous andintraperitoneal routes. An experimental teratogen. Otherexperimental reproductive effects. When heated todecomposition it emits toxic fumes of F-.
