betamethasone
Pronunciation: bay-ta-METH-ah-sone
Corticosteroid medication administered to pregnant women to accelerate fetal lung maturation before preterm delivery.
Full Definition
Betamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid used in obstetrics to promote fetal lung maturity when preterm delivery is anticipated between 24-34 weeks of gestation. The medication accelerates the production of pulmonary surfactant, reducing the incidence and severity of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. The standard course consists of two intramuscular injections of 12 mg given 24 hours apart, with optimal benefit occurring 24-48 hours after the first dose and lasting approximately 7 days. Betamethasone also reduces the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. The medication is contraindicated in cases of chorioamnionitis and may cause temporary maternal hyperglycemia in diabetic patients.
Usage
Usage note: Standard dosing is two 12 mg IM injections 24 hours apart; verify dosing protocols per institutional guidelines.
In Context
- "Betamethasone was administered due to threatened preterm labor at 28 weeks gestation." — Medication administration record
- "The patient completed her betamethasone course 36 hours before delivery, providing optimal fetal benefit." — Obstetric summary