Dexamethasone - Benefits and Risks

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid medication with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects.

Dexamethasone FAQ

How does dexamethasone work?

The activation of the GR by dexamethasone results in dose-dependent suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) and of production of endogenous corticosteroids by the adrenal glands, thereby reducing circulating endogenous concentrations of corticosteroids like cortisol and corticosterone.

Can dexamethasone cause side effects?

When used with dexamethasone, certain drugs used to treat fungal infections can increase the level of dexamethasone in your blood. This can raise your risk of side effects. Examples of these drugs include:

Can dexamethasone be used to treat cancer?

Dexamethasone is also used alone or with other drugs to prevent or treat the following conditions related to cancer: Anemia. Cerebral edema ( fluid build-up in the brain) associated with brain tumors. Drug hypersensitivity ( allergic reactions ). Hypercalcemia (high blood levels of calcium ). Thrombocytopenia (low platelet levels).

Is dexamethasone a glucocorticoid?

Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid medication used to treat rheumatic problems, a number of skin diseases, severe allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, croup, brain swelling, eye pain following eye surgery, superior vena cava syndrome (a complication of some forms of cancer), and along with antibiotics in tuberculosis.

What is dexamethasone used for?

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Dexamethasone is used to treat many different inflammatory conditions such as allergic disorders and skin conditions. Dexamethasone is also used to treat ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders.

What information is available on dexamethasone?

More information is available on dexamethasone including side effects, age restrictions, food interactions, whether the medicine is available at a government subsidised price on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) as well as other useful information.

Is dexamethasone a steroid?

Dexamethasone belongs to a class of drugs called steroids. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions. For conditions with inflammation: With certain conditions, inflammation can cause the immune system to be overactive.