Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone
(dex-a-METH-a-zone)

Also Known As: Decadron®

How It Is Given:

Orally (by mouth), in tablets of varrying strenghts, or in liquid form

Intravenously (through a vein, IV)

Early Side Effects (beginning within one week) Can Include: 

• Flushed cheeks.
• A burning sensation in the stomach.
• Mild nausea and vomiting.
• Changes in energy levels or mood.
• Restlessness and trouble sleeping.
• High blood sugar.
• Genital burning during IV infusion.
• Hiccups. Your doctor can prescribe medication to stop your hiccups.

Late Side Effects (beginning after one week) Can Include:

These will go away slowly after you stop taking this medicine.

• Swelling of the face, neck, and abdomen.
• Acne of the face, neck, and upper chest.
• Weight gain.
• Ankle Swelling.
• Increase chance of getting fungus infections of the mouth (called Candida or thrush).
• Rounding, redness, or both of the face.
• Growth of facial hair.
• Muscle weakness, especially in the shoulders and thighs.
• Changes in vision or cataracts.
• High blood pressure.
• Bruising.

Possible Diet Changes:

This drug will affect blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, let your doctor know. You may need to follow a diabetic diet.

• Ask your doctor, nurse, or dietitian if you should:
  – Limit the amount of sodium in your diet to 2,000 mg (2 grams) a day. This may reduce swelling.
  – Eat at least two to four servings a day of potassium-rich foods. These include:
  • oranges and other citrus fruits
  • orange juice
  • bananas
  • milk products
  • tomatoes
  – Eat three to four servings a day of foods rich in protein. These include:
  • meat
  • poultry
  • fish
  • low-fat milk and milk products
  • eggs
  • beans
  • legumes
  Three ounces of cooked meat, fish, or poultry equals one serving.

Special Points:

• Do not stop taking this medicine without asking your doctor. It must be stopped gradually.
• Take with or after meals
• Avoid crowds. Avoid people who have an infection or a contagious illness. Do not have vaccinations unless your doctor approves.
• Carry a medical ID card stating that you are using this medicine.
• Patients who will be on this medicine for six weeks or more should also take Bactrim®. It is an antibiotic that helps prevent a type of pneumonia called PCP. If you are told to take Bacuim, take it for one full month after you stop dexamethasone.

Call Your Doctor or Nurse If You Have: