Key facts about Decadron
What is Decadron?
Decadron is the brand name for dexamthasone and is available as an oral tablet and solution.
What dosages is Decadron available in?
Decadron is available as a 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2 mg, 4 mg, and 6 mg oral tablet as well as a 0.5 mg/5 ml oral solution.
What is Decadron used for?
Decadron is a corticosteroid and is used to treat allergies and allergic reactions, skin conditions, hormone-related conditions, eye conditions, stomach conditions, respiratory disorders, autoimmune and rheumatic conditions, multiple myeloma (Hemady brand only), blood cancers, and other blood-related conditions, certain eye conditions, nervous system and brain conditions, kidney diseases, and shock.
How does Decadron work?
Decadron is a corticosteroid that’s similar to a hormone that your body naturally makes, called cortisol. It lowers swelling (inflammation) and other immune responses that can cause you pain, discomfort, or harm.
How do I take Decadron?
Decadron is typically taken by mouth with doses ranging from 0.75 mg to 9 mg daily, depending on your medical condition.
Is it safe for me to take Decadron?
Decadron is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not take this medication if you have a systemic fungal infection.
Decadron Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Decadron include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Higher blood sugar levels
- Headache
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Feeling more hungry
- Weight gain
Decadron Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Decadron. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Allergic reaction: trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling (on your face, lips, mouth, or throat), peeling skin, rash, and hives
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Decadron
The following medications may interact with Decadron:
- Phenytoin, phenobarbital, ephedrine, and rifampin – May decrease the levels and effects of Decadron
- Warfarin – May alter PT time (prothrombin time – how quickly your blood forms a clot)
- Potassium depleting diuretics – May increase risk of hypokalemia
Who makes Decadron?
Pfizer Inc.
Is Decadron safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Decadron will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while receiving Decadron, talk to your healthcare provider. Infants born of mothers who have received substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be carefully observed for signs of hypoadrenalism.
