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Decadron Injection | Dexamethasone IV Steroid Use

Decadron Injection Specification

  • Requires Prescription (YES/NO): YES

  • Generic Name: Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate

  • Strength: Usually available in 4 mg/mL or 8 mg/2 mL ampoules

  • Form: Injectable Solution

  • Drug Class: Corticosteroid / Glucocorticoid

  • Used For: Anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressant, allergic reactions, shock, cerebral edema, adrenal insufficiency

🔍 How It Works

Decadron (dexamethasone) is a potent glucocorticoid that works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. It stabilizes cell membranes, decreases capillary permeability, and blocks the release of substances involved in inflammatory and allergic responses.

Decadron Injection Usage and Safety

Dosage

  • Adults & Children: Varies widely depending on condition. Usually given intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM).

  • Dosage and duration should be individualized based on the condition being treated.

  • Must be administered by a healthcare professional.

⚠️ Side Effects

Common:

  • Facial puffiness

  • Mood swings

  • Increased appetite

  • Insomnia

  • Elevated blood sugar

Serious:

  • Adrenal suppression

  • Gastrointestinal bleeding

  • Osteoporosis (long-term use)

  • Risk of infection

  • Delayed wound healing

Drug Interactions

  • NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen): Increased risk of ulcers/bleeding

  • Diuretics: Increased risk of electrolyte imbalance

  • Vaccines: May reduce vaccine effectiveness

  • Anti-diabetic drugs: May need dose adjustment

  • Phenytoin / Rifampin: May increase metabolism of dexamethasone

Indications

Used for treatment of:

  • Severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis)

  • Asthma exacerbations

  • Cerebral edema

  • Septic shock

  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, RA)

  • Cancer-related inflammation

  • Adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease)

🚫 When Not to Use

  • Known hypersensitivity to dexamethasone or components of the injection

  • Systemic fungal infections

  • Untreated infections unless life-threatening and under strict medical supervision

  • Live vaccines during high-dose corticosteroid therapy

⚠️ Decadron Precautions

  • Monitor blood glucose in diabetics

  • Caution in hypertensive, osteoporotic, and psychiatric patients

  • Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation

  • Avoid abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use — taper dose

⚠️ Decadron Warnings

  • Warning 1: May mask signs of infection – monitor carefully

  • Warning 2: Long-term use may lead to Cushingoid features

  • Warning 3: Immunosuppression increases infection risk

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C: May be used if benefits outweigh risks. Avoid in the first trimester unless necessary.

  • Use With Caution:
    Dexamethasone crosses the placenta and may affect fetal adrenal development. While it may be prescribed during pregnancy (e.g., for fetal lung maturation in preterm labor), prolonged or high-dose use is not recommended unless clearly indicated. Always consult your healthcare provider before using Decadron during pregnancy.

Lactation

  • Dexamethasone may pass into breast milk. Use with caution during breastfeeding and under medical supervision.

Storage

  • Store below 25°C

  • Protect from light and freezing

  • Keep in original ampoule until use

  • For single use only. Discard unused solution