# Betamethasone for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Betamethasone is a glucocorticoid. In horses, BetaVet (6 mg/mL) is injected into the joint at 1.5 mL — 9 mg of betamethasone — per joint for osteoarthritis pain and inflammation.

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/betamethasone/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Betamethasone is a glucocorticoid [2]. In horses, BetaVet (6 mg/mL) is injected into the joint at 1.5 mL — 9 mg of betamethasone — per joint for osteoarthritis pain and inflammation [1].

- Class: Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid, long-acting)
- Brands: BetaVet

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horses | Osteoarthritis — per joint (9 mg per joint (1.5 mL of BetaVet).) | 9 mg/animal [1] | Intra-articular |  | Label |

## Uses

- Horses: pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis — intra-articular injection (BetaVet) [1].

## Mechanism of action

Glucocorticoids bind receptors in the cell cytoplasm and the hormone–receptor complex changes which proteins the cell makes; one of these, lipocortin, inhibits phospholipase A2, the first step of prostaglandin and leukotriene production [2].

## Safety

- Contraindicated in horses with hypersensitivity to betamethasone [1].
- Do not use in horses intended for human consumption [1].
- Corticosteroids may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis [1].


## Frequently asked questions

### How much BetaVet goes into a joint?

1.5 mL — 9 mg of betamethasone — per joint, with strict aseptic technique [1].

## References

[1] BETAVET (betamethasone) injectable suspension — FDA labeling — Animal Drugs @ FDA — US label, American Regent (2026). https://animaldrugsatfda.fda.gov/adafda/app/search/public/document/downloadLabeling/1078
[2] Corticosteroids in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (2024). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/corticosteroids-in-animals

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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