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General Medication Fact Sheet for Dexamethasone
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Dexamethasone |
| Brand Name Versions | Decadron, DexPak |
| Purpose | Corticosteroid used to treat inflammation, allergic reactions, and certain autoimmune conditions |
| Mechanism of Action | Reduces inflammation by suppressing the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversing increased capillary permeability; suppresses the immune system. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, oral solution, injection |
| Available Strengths | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2 mg, 4 mg, 6 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Varies depending on the condition; typically once daily or multiple times daily |
| Common Side Effects | Increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes, trouble sleeping, fluid retention |
| Serious Side Effects | Increased risk of infection, high blood sugar, osteoporosis, adrenal suppression, glaucoma, cataracts |
| Drug Interactions | NSAIDs, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), certain diabetes medications, diuretics, potassium-depleting agents, CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers |
| Important Notes | Do not stop taking abruptly without consulting your doctor; long-term use can cause serious side effects; carry a medical ID card if you are on long-term therapy |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember; skip if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Prednisone, Methylprednisolone, Hydrocortisone |
Dexamethasone Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prednisone | Synthetic glucocorticoid; reduces inflammation by suppressing the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes | Commonly used for a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. |
| Methylprednisolone (Medrol) | Synthetic glucocorticoid; reduces inflammation by suppressing the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes | Potent anti-inflammatory with similar uses to Prednisone. |
| Hydrocortisone | Synthetic glucocorticoid; reduces inflammation by suppressing the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes | Lower potency compared to Prednisone and dexamethasone. Available in various forms, including topical creams. |
Dexamethasone Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Increased appetite | Increased risk of infection |
| Weight gain | High blood sugar |
| Mood changes | Osteoporosis |
| Trouble sleeping | Adrenal suppression |
| Fluid retention | Glaucoma |
| Acne | Cataracts |
Dexamethasone Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inflammation | 0.75-9 mg daily | Varies depending on response | Take with food to minimize stomach upset. |
| Allergic Reactions | 0.75-9 mg daily | Varies depending on response | Take with food to minimize stomach upset. |
| Autoimmune Diseases | 0.75-9 mg daily | Varies depending on response | Take with food to minimize stomach upset. Do not stop taking medication suddenly. |
Dexamethasone Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $10 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $50 – $100 |
| From CPS | $23.95 |
