About dexamethasone
Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid)
Used for
- Treats severe inflammation and allergic reactions
- Treats autoimmune and some blood disorders
- Used for certain cancers and brain swelling
- Treats croup in children
Usual adult dose
Varies widely by condition; commonly 0.5–10 mg daily, sometimes higher for severe illness.
Usual dose in children
Varies by condition and weight; croup is commonly treated with a single 0.15–0.6 mg/kg dose.
Common side effects
- Upset stomach, increased appetite, or trouble sleeping
- Mood changes or restlessness
- Raised blood sugar or blood pressure
- Long-term use can weaken bones and increase infection risk
Important warnings
- Long-term treatment should not be stopped suddenly
- Can mask or worsen infections
- May worsen diabetes, stomach ulcers, glaucoma, or osteoporosis
- Dose and duration depend on the condition
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; prolonged or high-dose treatment may affect fetal growth.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter milk; prolonged or high doses may affect milk production or the infant.
Interactions
- Warfarin and other blood thinners
- Diabetes medicines
- Rifampin, phenytoin, or carbamazepine
- Live vaccines
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.