Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone Indications

Dexamethasone (Dexona) is a type of corticosteroid that may be prescribed when the body fails to create enough of a natural hormone that is found in the adrenal glands. When a person experiences type of swelling or inflammation then this medicine may be able to help reduce the pain and redness. It is very often prescribed for those with different forms of arthritis. Sometimes it can be useful for severe allergies and severe asthma too. Sometimes this medicine is used hand in hand with others to help fight various forms of cancer.

Dexamethasone Usage

This medication is offered as a tablet that should be taken with food to prevent an upset stomach or nausea. It is important to drink lots of water with it to help avoid dry mouth. The amount that a person needs to take per day will vary. The doctor should do a full assessment and then give the lowest possible dose. The situation should be reviewed again in a few weeks. Then the dose can be changed based on need if the patient needs more of it than was initially given.

It is very important to note that this medication needs to be taken every day for the best overall results. It can take several weeks of use for someone to gain the full benefits from Dexamethasone. When it is time to stop taking it, the dose has to be tapered or various side effects from withdrawals can occur. They include nausea, insomnia, irritability, shaking, and headaches.

Dexamethasone Precautions

It is very important to tell your doctor if you take any other forms of medication. This includes those that are prescribed and those over the counter. Even vitamins and herbal supplements should be discussed. Sometimes various medications can interfere with each other and Dexamethasone doesn’t always mix well with various forms of medicine.

Anyone with a type of fungus infection should refrain from taking this form of medicine. Those with diabetes, heart problems, liver problems, high blood pressure, or ulcers aren’t a good candidate for the use of Dexamethasone. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid taking it as well.

Dexamethasone Side Effects

There are several known side effects that can range in severity when someone uses Dexamethasone. They typically aren’t severe though and will subside after a few weeks of use. These side effects include nausea or vomiting, insomnia, depression, headaches, and dizziness.