Drug Name

Decadron (Dexamethasone)

Drug Uses

Decadron is a corticosteroid that is used treat severe inflammation due to certain conditions like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis etc. It is also used to treat certain conditions associated with decreased adrenal gland function.

How it is taken

Decadron can be taken by mouth with or without food. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Decadron is a corticosteroid that decreases or prevents tissues from responding to inflammation.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Decadron, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Safety Information

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

Decadron may increase blood pressure, salt and water retention, and elevate increased potassium loss. It may also promote calcium loss and the development of osteoporosis. So you may need to reduce the use of salt and add a calcium supplement to your diet.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or have a systemic fungal infection, are taking mifepristone.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Decadron is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Decadron should be used with extreme caution in children as corticosteroids may affect growth rate in children.

Decadron may also weaken your immune system so ensure that you do not come in contact with people who have viral infections like common cold and chills.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are mild nausea or vomiting. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), appetite loss, black, tarry stools, changes in menstrual periods, convulsions, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, exaggerated sense of well-being, fever, general body discomfort, headache, increased pressure in the eye, joint or muscle pain, mood swings, muscle weakness, personality changes, prolonged sore throat, cold, or fever, puffing of the face, severe nausea or vomiting, swelling of feet or legs, unusual weight gain, vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds, weakness, weight loss.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur