Dexamethasone is mainly used to treat blood disorders, skin diseases, immune system disorders and arthritis. It belongs to a class of medicines called corticosteroids. It works by decreasing your immune system’s response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic type reactions.
It is advised to take this medicine with milk or food to avoid stomach upset.
For dose adjustments please consult your doctor.
Expert Advice
Take with meals.
Do not stop this medication suddenly.
Avoid alcohol.
Have regular eye examinations.
Check glucose levels reguarly, if you have diabetes.
Primary Uses
Allergy and asthma
Indications
This medicine is indicated in infected inflammatory conditions, rheumatology (disorders of muscles and joints), pumonary disease (lung disease).
Side Effects
Patients using this medication may at times experience corneal thinning, cataract, fungal infection and rise in intraocular (eye) pressure. If you experience any of these symptoms for a long period of time, consult your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Pregnancy
Pregnant females are advised to consult their doctors before using this medicine.
Lactation
Effect is undetermined in lactating females. Consult your doctor for further advice.
Driving
It is safe to drive after taking this medicine.
Liver
Caution is advised, better to consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Kidney
Caution is advised, better to consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Alcohol
Alcohol is prohibited. Please avoid consuming alcohol while using this medicine.
Dexamethasone is contraindicated in following conditions:
Active or untreated tuberculosis
Herpes simplex virus
An infection due to a fungus
Intestinal infections
Diabetes
A condition with low thyroid hormone levels
FAQS
What are the uses of this medicine?
This medicine is used for treating arthritis (joint disorder), breathing problems, certain bowel disorders, blood/hormone/immune system disorders, certain eye and skin disorders, and various cancers. It can also be used as a test for disorder of the adrenal gland (Cushing’s syndrome).
How to store this medicine?
Please store this medicine at room temperature (18-25 Celsius). Keep medicine away from excessive light, moisture, and children. Please do not flush medicines down the toilet.
Please read the leaflet provided with the medicine for further storage guidance.
What are the precautions for taking this medicine?
• Increased appetite
• Weight gain may occur
• Irregular menstrual periods may occur
• Sleep disturbances may occur
• May decrease effectiveness of vaccines thus do not get vaccines during use of this medicine unless instructed by your doctor
• May cause drowsiness therefore avoid work that requires alertness e.g. driving after taking this medicine
• Diabetic patients must be cautious
• Limit use of alcohol
How can I reduce the side effects of dexamethasone?
1.Report to your physician any severe, persisting abdominal (stomach area) pain or black, tarry stools.
2.Take the steroid mediation after a full meal or with antacids, as this may help reduce irritation of the stomach. Steroids can increase your appetite (desire to eat food).
Important notes for use of this medicine?
• Please do not share this medicine with anyone.
• Be sure to tell your doctor about any conditions/diseases/disorders you have or had (e.g. diabetes, eye conditions, osteoporosis, etc) before using this medicine
Can dexamethasone make me fat?
Steroids such as dexamethasone may cause you to gain excess weight. Steroids can cause an increase in appetite and a build up (retention) of fluid.
Is dexamethasone harmful to humans?
An overdose of dexamethasone is not expected to produce life threatening symptoms. Long term use of high doses can lead to thinning of skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.
How do I apply this medication?
Wash your hands, remove lenses, look towards ceiling, pull down the lower lid and add eye drops.
What are some symptoms of allergic reaction?
If you are allergic to this you may experience rash, constant burning, pain, changes in vision, itching, swelling in eyes or worsening of conditions
Will I see instant results?
It may take some time for the medicine to work effectively. Use it regularly and as
prescribed by your healthcare provider for the best results.
What is the dosage in adults and children?
Use eye drops 1 drop in the affected eye three times daily for 7 days. Continue treatment for 2-3 days after infection clears. Go to your doctor if there is no improvement in condition.
Should I stop this therapy if I feel better?
No, complete full course of therapy even if you feel better.
Disclaimer
Dawaai's intention is to make sure that it's consumers get information that is accurate, reviewed by an expert and error-free. However, the information mentioned here should not be used as a replacement for the advice of a qualified physician. The information given here is for informational purposes only, which may not cover all possible precautions, side effects, contraindications or drug interactions. Consult your doctor and discuss your queries related to any medicine or disease.
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