Decadron
Dexamethasone
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Decadron
Decadron belongs to corticosteroid group of medicines. It acts by reducing the tissue response to inflammation (it is a potent anti inflammatory medicine which acts on all types of inflammation). It also modifies the response of our body to certain immune stimulation.
Therapeutic Uses of Decadron
Decadron is used in the treatment of severe asthma, severe allergic reactions, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, certain blood disorders, lupus (SLE or systemic lupus erythematosus, DLE or discoid lupus erythematosus etc.), multiple sclerosis, and certain eye and skin conditions. It is also used in some conditions that are due to decreased adrenal gland function. It can also be used in some conditions that is determined by your doctor.
Direction of use of Decadron
Decadron should be used as per direction of your doctor. It is usually taken by mouth on full stomach or with food. Ask your doctor if you have any doubt about the use of Decadron. Do not stop taking Decadron suddenly; the dose of it should be slowly reduced over few weeks or tapering of the dose is done in few weeks. Sudden withdrawal of Decadron may precipitate the condition for which you are taking it.
Dose of Decadron, if Missed
If you miss a dose of Decadron, take it as soon as possible. If you miss for long duration and the next dose is almost due, than skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule as usual. Never take 2 doses of Decadron together.
How to Store Decadron
Decadron is stored at room temperature i.e. between 68 to 77 degree Fahrenheit or 20 to 25 degree C. Keep id out of reach of children and pets. Decadron is stored in a dry place away from sunlight, moisture and heat.
More Information About Decadron
Never share Decadron with anyone. It should be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. If you do not see any improvement in your condition or have any doubt about the treatment consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Decadron
Decadron should not be used in the following conditions and doctor should be consulted immediately if you get any of them:
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Decadron.
- If you are suffering from systemic fungal infection or you are taking mifepristone.
Important notes to remember:
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: if you are pregnant consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of it before taking Decadron, because it is not clear if it can harm your fetus/baby.
- Decadron can reduce your immunity power and you can become susceptible to infection during treatment with Decadron. To prevent infection you should avoid people who are suffering from cold, flu etc. Contact your doctor if you get any of the preliminary signs of infection like fever, sore throat, chills etc.
- If teenagers and children are taking Decadron, it may cause growth retardation in them and growth checks should be performed regularly if a child and teenager is on Decadron. Children can also be more sensitive to Decadron and caution applied while giving them Decadron.
- Decadron can affect your blood sugar levels if you are a diabetic patient. Consult your doctor if you have to take Decadron, about the requirement of change of dose of diabetes medication.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about your Decadron therapy, if you have to undergo some emergency care, medical, surgical or dental procedures.
- If you are on Decadron and old, you should take calcium supplementation as it can cause loss of calcium and development of osteoporosis.
- It may cause increase in blood pressure, increase sodium and water retention and higher potassium loss. You may have to take potassium supplement and restrict salt intake.
Possible Adverse Effects
- Consult your doctor if you are having most common side effects like nausea, vomiting etc. and they become troublesome.
- Get immediate medical attention if you have any of the uncommon serious side effects with Decadron like severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of face, mouth, tongue, lips, difficulty in breathing, chest discomfort etc.), decrease appetite, depression, convulsion, dizziness, exaggerated sense of well-being, mood change, personality change, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, black stool, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, muscle weakness, common cold, sore throat, swelling of feet, legs, blood or coffee color vomiting, weight gain or unusual weight loss, change in menstrual periods etc.