Content
Dexamethasone is a type of corticoid that has a potent anti-inflammatory action, being widely used to treat different types of allergies or inflammatory problems in the body, such as rheumatoid arthritis, severe asthma or hives, for example.
This medicine can be purchased in conventional pharmacies, but only with a prescription, in various forms, such as tablets, elixir or injectable, in order to facilitate its application according to the location and the problem to be treated. One of the most well-known trade names for dexamethasone is Decadron.
What is it for
Dexamethasone is indicated to treat several acute or chronic allergic and inflammatory problems, including rheumatic, skin, eye, glandular, pulmonary, blood and gastrointestinal disorders.
Intravenous and intramuscular injections are recommended for acute illnesses. Once the acute phase is overcome, the injectable should be replaced, if possible, by treatment with steroid tablets.
How to use
The form of use of dexamethasone and its dosage can vary widely, according to the problem to be treated, the person's age and other factors of health history. Therefore, its use should be done only with the recommendation of a doctor.
Still, the dosage intervals that are generally recommended, depending on the form of presentation, are:
1. Elixir or pills
The initial dose varies between 0.75 to 15 mg per day, depending on the disease to be treated, its severity and the response of each person. The dose should be reduced gradually over the course of the treatment if it lasts for several days.
2. Injection
The starting dose of injectable dexamethasone is usually 0.5 to 20 mg per day, depending on the disease being treated. The injection must be administered by a healthcare professional.
Possible side effects
Side effects of using corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, are relatively common, especially when the treatment is done for a long time. In the case of dexamethasone, the most common effects include weight gain, increased appetite, nausea, malaise, fluid retention, heart failure, increased blood pressure, muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass, osteoporosis, bone fragility, gastrointestinal problems, delayed wound healing, skin fragility, acne, red spots on the skin, bruises, excessive sweating and allergic skin reactions.
In addition, seizures, increased intracranial pressure, dizziness, headache, depression, euphoria and psychotic disorders, changes in vision and reduced immunity can also occur. There may also be a decrease in the number of lymphocytes and monocytes in the blood test, as well as the appearance of cardiac arrhythmias and cardiomyopathies.
Who should not take
Dexamethasone is contraindicated in people with systemic fungal infections or with hypersensitivity to sulfites, or any other components present in the formula. In addition, it should not be given to people who have recently had live virus vaccines.
In the case of women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, this medicine should only be used with guidance from the obstetrician.