Betamethasone for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands
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].
- Drug class
- Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid, long-acting)
- Sourced doses for
- Horses
- Brands on this site
- BetaVet
Betamethasone dose calculator
Type the strength printed on your own product. Results are calculated in your browser from the cited doses on this page — always check the label of the product you use.
Betamethasone 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 |
What betamethasone is used for
- Horses: pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis — intra-articular injection (BetaVet) [1].
How betamethasone works (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, contraindications and precautions
Brands that contain betamethasone
| Brand | Company | Contains | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetaVet | American Regent | Betamethasone | USA (FDA label) |
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
- BETAVET (betamethasone) injectable suspension — FDA labeling
Passage read from this source
Using strict aseptic technique, administer 1.5 mL BETAVET (9 mg total betamethasone) per joint by intra-articular injection.
BETAVET is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in horses.
BETAVET is contraindicated in horses with hypersensitivity to betamethasone.
Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.
- Corticosteroids in Animals
Passage read from this source
Glucocorticoid-specific receptors in the cell cytoplasm bind with steroid ligands to form hormone-receptor complexes
Such proteins include lipocortin, a protein known to inhibit PLA2alpha
For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.