DEXAMETHASONE (dex a METH a sone) is a corticosteroid. It is used to treat inflammation of the skin, joints, lungs, and other organs. Common conditions treated include asthma, allergies, and arthritis. It is also used for other conditions, like blood disorders and diseases of the adrenal glands.
This medicine is for injection into a muscle, joint, lesion, soft tissue, or vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
This may not apply. If you are having a series of injections over a prolonged period, try not to miss an appointment. Call your doctor or health care professional to reschedule if you are unable to keep an appointment.
Visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
Wear a medical ID bracelet or chain. Carry a card that describes your disease and details of your medicine and dosage times.
This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your health care professional for advice if you get a fever, chills, or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick. Call your health care professional if you are around anyone with measles, chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.
If you are going to need surgery or other procedures, tell your doctor or health care professional that you have taken this medicine within the last 12 months.
Ask your doctor or health care professional about your diet. You may need to lower the amount of salt you eat.
This medicine may increase blood sugar. Ask your healthcare provider if changes in diet or medicines are needed if you have diabetes.