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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Dexamethasone is employed in the treatment of various conditions, including arthritis, blood and hormone disorders, allergic reactions, skin diseases, eye problems, breathing difficulties, bowel disorders, cancer, and immune system disorders. It can also serve as a diagnostic tool for assessing adrenal gland disorders, such as Cushing’s syndrome.
Classified as a corticosteroid, dexamethasone operates by diminishing the response of the immune system to diverse diseases, thereby alleviating symptoms such as swelling and allergic reactions.
Uses and Dosage
Dexamethasone is available in tablet and oral solution forms for ingestion. Your doctor will prescribe a specific dosing schedule tailored to your needs.
Take dexamethasone precisely as directed, avoiding alterations in dosage or frequency without your doctor’s approval.
Do not discontinue dexamethasone abruptly without consulting your doctor. Abrupt cessation may lead to adverse effects such as loss of appetite, upset stomach, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, headache, fever, joint and muscle pain, peeling skin, and weight loss. If you’ve been on high doses for an extended period, your doctor is likely to taper your dosage gradually to enable your body to adjust before discontinuation. Be vigilant for these side effects when decreasing your dose or after discontinuing the tablets or oral liquid, even if transitioning to an inhalation corticosteroid medication.
If you experience such issues, contact your doctor promptly. Adjustments in dosage or a temporary resumption of tablets or liquid may be necessary.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach
- stomach irritation
- vomiting
- headache
- dizziness
- insomnia
- restlessness
- depression
- anxiety
- acne
- increased hair growth
- easy bruising
- irregular or absent menstrual periods
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- skin rash
- swollen face, lower legs, or ankles
- vision problems
- cold or infection that lasts a long time
- muscle weakness
- black or tarry stool
Caution
- Before initiating dexamethasone, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product could contain inactive ingredients that may lead to allergic reactions.
- Discuss your medical history, especially any infections, kidney or liver disease, mental/mood disorders, mineral imbalances, thyroid disease, gastrointestinal issues, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, eye diseases, bone loss (osteoporosis), or blood clots.
- Using corticosteroid medications for an extended period may reduce your body’s ability to respond to physical stress.
- Before surgery, emergency treatment, or if you face a serious illness or injury, inform your doctor or dentist about your current or recent use of this medication. Report unusual fatigue or weight loss promptly. If you’re on long-term use, carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet indicating your medication use.
- Dexamethasone may mask signs of infection, making you more susceptible to infections or worsening existing ones. Avoid contact with individuals with easily transmissible infections (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Inform your doctor of potential exposure to infections.
- This medication may cause stomach bleeding, and concurrent use of alcohol may heighten the risk. Limit alcohol intake and seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
- Notify your healthcare professional before receiving immunizations/vaccinations and avoid contact with individuals who recently received live vaccines. The liquid form may contain sugar and/or alcohol, requiring caution in individuals with diabetes, liver disease, or similar conditions.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects such as bone loss/pain, stomach/intestinal bleeding, and mental/mood changes.
- Long-term use in children may impede growth, and regular check-ups are advised.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary, as it may rarely harm an unborn baby. Infants born to mothers using this medication for an extended period may exhibit hormone-related symptoms. Consult your doctor if you notice persistent nausea/vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn.
- The passage of this medication into breast milk is uncertain. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Decadron Elixir is available in the following forms and strengths:
- dexamethasone oral liquid:
- 0.5 mg / 5 ml
FAQ
Is Decadron Elixir a steroid?
Yes, Decadron Elixir is a corticosteroid. It works to lessen swelling (inflammation) and other immune responses that can cause you pain, discomfort, or harm.
How long does Decadron Elixir take to work?
The timing of when Decadron Elixir starts to work can differ depending on what condition you’re taking it for. In general, Decadron Elixir reaches its “peak” concentration in the body within an hour.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/dexamethasone/what-is
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1027-5021/dexamethasone-oral/dexamethasone-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dexamethasone-oral-route/description/drg-20075207
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682792.html
- https://www.drugs.com/dexamethasone.html
