Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid. They are a copy of a hormone that is naturally made in bodies. You can get it only on prescription; it comes in tablets, soluble tablets, and a liquid. 

How Does Dexamethasone Work?

Dexamethasone exerts its effects by modulating the body's immune response and reducing inflammation. It does so by inhibiting the production and release of substances in the body that trigger inflammation and immune responses. This anti-inflammatory action makes it valuable in treating a wide range of conditions.

What is Dexamethasone Used For?

This steroid is used to treat a wide variety of health conditions. It is used in hospitals to treat serious patients with COVID-19 and other infections. It can also reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. It has other uses as well, like:    

• Arthritis
• Blood or hormonal disorders
• Allergic reactions
• Skin diseases
• Eye issues
• Breathing problems
• Bowel disorders
• Immune system disorders

How and when to take Dexamethasone?

Following the doctor's instructions when taking this medicine is crucial. Always follow the guidelines provided by them while taking Dexamethasone. 

The doctors can usually suggest you take it after a meal, a snack or eating. Eating it on an empty stomach is not advised. The soluble tablets can be dissolved in a glass of water and injected. For other tablets, you can swallow them with a glass of water. 

For the liquid Dexamethasone, there is a plastic spoon or syringe with it that can help you measure the right dose. 

What are the side effects of Dexamethasone?

Here are the possible side effects of Dexamethasone: 

• Weight gain
• Indigestion
• Sleep problems
• Mild mood changes
• Infection
• Cushing's syndrome
• Adrenal gland problems
• High blood sugar
• Low potassium 
• Pancreas problems
• DVT or blood clot
• Internal bleeding
• Sudden changes in eyesight

What precautions should be taken?    

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid with many long-term side effects and must be monitored carefully with long-term use. Important precautions include:

• Follow up with blood and urine tests regularly, especially if treated for an extended period.  
• Dexamethasone tablet use in pregnancy can be harmful. If you are pregnant, dexamethasone may cause harm to your unborn child; therefore, you should use effective birth control during treatment and for one month after.  
• Prolonged or high doses of dexamethasone can suppress adrenal gland function. You should not abruptly stop taking dexamethasone.  
• Dexamethasone can lower your body's immune system. You should avoid being around anyone who is sick and promptly report any fevers or sore throats to your physician.  
• Without medical approval, do not receive live vaccines while on dexamethasone.  
• Any blurred vision or problems with vision should be reported to your physician immediately.  
• Any unexplained pain or weakness of the muscle should be reported to your physician.  
• Dexamethasone may cause depressed moods, mood swings, and change in behavior.  
• If you become critically ill or require surgery, your physician may change your dose of dexamethasone.  
• Make sure you inform all healthcare providers of any medications or supplements you take with dexamethasone.  

Dexamethasone should always be prescribed by a physician; if you have been prescribed dexamethasone for a prolonged time, arrangements should be made for your physician to monitor your use of dexamethasone closely. 

What if I missed the dose of Dexamethasone?

If you forget to take a dose of Dexamethasone but have been taking it once daily, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it's time for the next scheduled dosage. 

If you take Dexamethasone 2-3 times a day, take the dose quickly when you remember as long as there are more than 2 hours until the next one. If not, directly take the next one.

Taking a double dose for forgetting is not recommended. 

What if there is an overdose of Dexamethasone?

Do not take an overdose on this medication for faster results, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have overdosed with this medication by mistake and have severe side effects of this. 

What are the storage conditions for Dexamethasone?

Store this medication at normal room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Also, store it far from the reach of children and pets. 

Drug Interaction

The chances of side effects can increase if taken with other medicines. 

Consult your doctor if you take the following medicines: 

• Warfarin
• Rifampicin and rifabutin
• Antifungal medicine
• Medicine for epilepsy like phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbitone, primidone
• Stomach antacids or other medicine for stomach issues
• Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs like a high dose of aspirin for pain relief, ibuprofen, diclofenac
• Medicine for HIV
• Recent vaccination or if you are due one.

How quickly does Dexamethasone show results?

The peak effects of Dexamethasone are reached within 10-30 mins of administering it. 

Dexamethasone is prescription only. Therefore consult a doctor before taking the medicine. Ensure you have discussed prior medical conditions and ongoing medicines with your doctor before taking the medicine.

How safe is Dexamethasone?

Corticosteroids, like dexamethasone, are usually safe. Their advantages are much greater than the potential drawbacks, especially for patients with severe pneumonia. It's possible that they might raise blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), so doctors should keep an eye on this, especially for patients with diabetes.

Comparison of a Dexamethasone medicine with a Glycerol

FAQs

1. What is Dexamethasone used for?

Dexamethasone is used to treat various conditions, including inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, allergies, and some types of cancer.

2. What are the common side effects of Dexamethasone?

Common side effects may include increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes, insomnia, and increased blood pressure.

3. Is Dexamethasone safe for children?

Dexamethasone can be used in children, but the dosage and duration should be carefully monitored by a pediatrician.

4. Can Dexamethasone be used to treat COVID-19?

Dexamethasone has been used to treat severe cases of COVID-19 to reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve outcomes. However, it should only be used under medical supervision.

5. Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Dexamethasone?

It's generally advisable to follow a healthy diet while taking Dexamethasone, as it can lead to weight gain and other metabolic changes.

6. Is dexamethasone a sleeping tablet?

No, it is not a sleeping tablet; rather, it is a corticosteroid used to treat inflammation and some other conditions.

7. Why is dexamethasone not given at night?

It is usually taken in the morning because it can cause insomnia and restlessness, which can interfere with sleep.

8. Does dexamethasone make you sleepy or awake?

It can make some people feel awake, restless and more alert. However, the effects might vary.

9. How long should dexamethasone be taken?

It is usually taken for the shortest period possible as recommended by the doctor.

10. Does dexamethasone increase heart rate?

Yes, it can cause an increased heart rate; however, this is not very common.

11. Can I stop dexamethasone after 3 days?

Yes, it can be stopped if it is being taken for a short period, like a few days. However, it is best to consult the doctor.

12. How long do side effects last from dexamethasone?

The side effects last for a few days after the medication is stopped.

13. Does dexamethasone cause constipation?

Constipation is not common with this medication, though it can cause some gastrointestinal side effects in some people.

References

https://www.drugs.com/pro/Dexamethasone-injection.html#:~:text=Store%20at%2020%C2%B0%20to,Protect%20from%20light. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/Dexamethasone-oral-route/precautions/drg-20075207#:~:text=Talk%20to%20your%20doctor%20right,or%20unusual%20tiredness%20or%20weakness.
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1027-5021/Dexamethasone-oral/Dexamethasone-oral/details
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/Dexamethasone-tablets-and-liquid/#:~:text=When%20prescribed%20in%20doses%20higher,help%20calm%20your%20immune%20system

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.