Dexamethasone
Introduction To Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone belongs to a group of medicines called steroids. It is used in the treatment of various diseases and conditions such as inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It provides relief from swelling, redness, and pain, by preventing the release of substances that cause inflammation.
Dexamethasone is generally given by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. You need to use it regularly to get the maximum benefit of the medicine. Complete the full course to get maximum benefits from the medicine.
The most common side effects of this medicine include fluid or electrolyte imbalance, musculoskeletal disturbances, gastrointestinal disorder, skin disorder, neurological disorders, menstrual disorders, abnormal hair growth, and glaucoma. If you experience such symptoms that persist or worsen or any other symptoms which you think may be due to the medicine, let your doctor know.
Dexamethasone can make it harder for you to fight off infections. Tell your doctor if you have any signs of infection such as a fever or sore throat. Before taking the medicine, let your doctor know all the other medicines you are taking. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should ask the advice of their doctors before taking this medicine.
Uses of Dexamethasone
- Treatment of Inflammatory conditions
- Treatment of Autoimmune conditions
Benefits of Dexamethasone
Treatment of Inflammatory conditions
Dexamethasone gives relief in inflammatory conditions that affect muscles and
joints such as arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. It also helps manage
other inflammatory conditions such as asthma, inflammatory bowel disease,
uveitis, ulcerative colitis, and allergies. It works by blocking certain
chemicals that cause pain and swelling.
Treatment of Autoimmune conditions
Dexamethasone gives relief in autoimmune conditions like psoriasis, rheumatoid
arthritis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, etc. It works by lowering your immune
system’s response to these conditions thereby reducing symptoms such as
swelling, pain, itching, and other allergic-type reactions.
How to use Dexamethasone
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
How Dexamethasone works
Dexamethasone is a steroid which works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers in the body that cause inflammation (redness and swelling) and allergies.
Quick tips
- Do not use it more often or for longer than advised by your doctor.
- Dexamethasone can make it harder for you to fight off infections. Notify your doctor if you have any signs of infection such as a fever or sore throat.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Dexamethasone if I’m pregnant?
Dexamethasone may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Dexamethasone if I’m breastfeeding?
Dexamethasone is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
AlcoholCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Is drinking alcohol while taking Dexamethasone safe?
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Dexamethasone. Please consult your doctor.
DrivingSAFE
Can I drive after taking Dexamethasone?
Dexamethasone does not usually affect your ability to drive.
KidneyCAUTION
Can I take Dexamethasone if I have/had kidney diseases?
Dexamethasone should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Dexamethasone may be needed. Please consult your doctor. Regular monitoring of kidney function tests and other blood tests is advisable while you are taking Dexamethasone.
LiverCAUTION
Can I take Dexamethasone if I have/had liver diseases?
Dexamethasone should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Dexamethasone may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Dexamethasone a steroid?
Yes, Dexamethasone is a steroid medicine. It is also known as corticosteroids which occur naturally in the body and help to maintain health and wellbeing. Dexamethasone increases the levels of corticosteroids in the body which helps in treating various illnesses involving inflammation (redness, tenderness, heat and swelling).
Q. What is Dexamethasone used for?
Dexamethasone has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It is used to treat conditions like allergic conditions, anaphylaxis, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory skin diseases. It also helps to treat autoimmune diseases (these diseases happen when your body’s immune system attacks the body itself and causes damage) and certain eye disorders. Additionally, it is used to treat cancer and nephrotic syndrome when used in combination with other medications.
Q. How is Dexamethasone administered?
Dexamethasone should be administered by a doctor or under the supervision of a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. Usually, it is given into a muscle (intramuscular), joint (intra-articular), directly into a vein (direct intravenous), infusion or into the area being treated (soft tissue infiltration). The dose will be decided by your doctor based on the condition you are being treated for as well as your body weight. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get maximum benefit from Dexamethasone.
Q. How does Dexamethasone work?
The medicine works by reducing the inflammation which helps in treating many illnesses caused due to active inflammation. Also, it stops the reactions known as autoimmune reactions which occur when your body's immune system attacks the body itself and causes damage.
Q. Is Dexamethasone better than Prednisone?
Clinical studies have shown that Dexamethasone is a long-acting glucocorticoid. It is 6 times more potent than Prednisone. It stays in our body for a longer duration and is better tolerated when used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions. However, consult your doctor for the right treatment of your condition.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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