betamethasone

American  

[bey-tuh-meth-uh-sohn, bee-] / ˌbeɪ təˈmɛθ əˌsoʊn, ˌbi- /

noun

Pharmacology.

1. a synthetic analogue of a glucocorticoid, C 22 H 29 FO 5 , used in various forms in the treatment of inflammation, allergies, and tumors, and for replacement therapy in adrenal insufficiency.

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Etymology

Origin of betamethasone

Perhaps beta + meth(yl) + -a- connective vowel + (hydrocorti)sone, components of the chemical name

Example Sentences

The source of all the trouble was a medication called betamethasone, which Baffert has steadfastly argued was administered in an ointment for a rash on Medina Spirit’s hindquarters.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2025

In 2021, his colt Medina Spirit won the Derby but subsequently was disqualified after testing positive for betamethasone, a potent corticosteroid used to reduce pain and inflammation.

From New York Times • May 2, 2024

Baffert has unsuccessfully appealed the decision at every turn, saying the prohibited substance, betamethasone, was applied in a topical fashion for a rash rather than injected into a joint to ease discomfort.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 2, 2023

In a statement, Churchill Downs said Baffert continues to “peddle false narratives” about Medina Spirit’s failed drug test for a steroid, betamethasone, that is legal in Kentucky but is banned on race day.

From Washington Times • Jul. 3, 2023

Medina Spirit failed his test for having in his system the corticosteroid betamethasone, which Baffert and attorney Clark Brewster have argued came from an ointment rather than an injection.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 3, 2023