Key facts about Dexamethasone
What dosages is Dexamethasone available in?
Dexamethasone 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 Dexamethasone used for?
Dexamethasone 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 Dexamethasone work?
Dexamethasone 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 Dexamethasone?
Dexamethasone 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 Dexamethasone?
Dexamethasone 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.
Dexamethasone Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Dexamethasone include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Higher blood sugar levels
- Headache
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Feeling more hungry
- Weight gain
Dexamethasone Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Dexamethasone. 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 Dexamethasone
The following medications may interact with Dexamethasone:
- Phenytoin, phenobarbital, ephedrine, and rifampin – May decrease the levels and effects of Dexamethasone
- Warfarin – May alter PT time (prothrombin time – how quickly your blood forms a clot)
- Potassium depleting diuretics – May increase risk of hypokalemia
Who makes Dexamethasone?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Dexamethasone safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Dexamethasone will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while receiving Dexamethasone, 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.
