Drug Name

Decadron (Dexamethasone)

Drug Uses

Decadron is used for treating certain conditions associated with decreased adrenal gland function. It is also used to treat severe inflammation due to certain conditions, including severe asthma, severe allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, certain blood disorders, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and certain eye and skin conditions. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How to use

Use Decadron as directed by your doctor.

Take Decadron by mouth with food.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Decadron.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Decadron is a corticosteroid. It works by decreasing or preventing tissues from responding to inflammation. It also modifies the body's response to certain immune stimulation.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Decadron, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Decadron at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Decadron out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Decadron if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Decadron;
• you have a systemic fungal infection;
• you are taking mifepristone.

• Decadron may lower the ability of your body to fight infection. Avoid contact with people who have colds or infections. Tell your doctor if you notice signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Decadron before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
• Decadron may cause an elevation in blood pressure, salt and water retention, and increased potassium loss. You may need to restrict the use of salt and take a calcium supplement.
• Decadron can cause calcium loss and promote the development of osteoporosis. Take adequate calcium and vitamin D supplements.
• Diabetes patients -- Decadron may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.
• Caution is advised when using Decadron in children; they may be more sensitive to its effects.
• Corticosteroids may affect growth rate in children and teenagers in some cases. They may need regular growth checks while they take Decadron.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is not known if Decadron can cause harm to the fetus. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Decadron while you are pregnant. Decadron is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Decadron.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• mild nausea or vomiting.

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); appetite loss; black, tarry stools; changes in menstrual periods; convulsions; depression; diarrhea; dizziness; exaggerated sense of well-being; fever; general body discomfort; headache; increased pressure in the eye; joint or muscle pain; mood swings; muscle weakness; personality changes; prolonged sore throat, cold, or fever; puffing of the face; severe nausea or vomiting; swelling of feet or legs; unusual weight gain; vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds; weakness; weight loss.

More Information

Decadron is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.