What it is used for
- Severe inflammation and swelling, including around tumours or in the brain
- Severe allergic and autoimmune conditions
- Certain severe respiratory illnesses, under medical supervision
- Reducing nausea and inflammation in some cancer treatments; eye inflammation (drops)
How it works
Dexamethasone is a powerful corticosteroid that strongly suppresses inflammation and immune activity throughout the body, reducing swelling, redness and the harmful effects of an overactive immune response.
How it is taken
Available as tablets, oral solution, injection (hospital use), eye drops and other specialist forms. Take or use it exactly as your doctor or the label directs, usually with or after food for tablets. Do not stop it suddenly after more than a short course — your doctor will guide a gradual reduction.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Difficulty sleeping, restlessness or mood changes
- Indigestion
- Raised blood sugar and fluid retention
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of serious infection (steroids can mask or worsen them)
- Severe mood changes, confusion or psychosis
- Stomach ulcer or bleeding
- Adrenal crisis if stopped abruptly (severe weakness, dizziness, low blood pressure)
- Vision changes or signs of dangerously high blood sugar
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- NSAIDs (increased stomach-bleeding risk)
- Diabetes medicines (steroids raise blood sugar)
- Live vaccines (generally avoided during treatment)
- Some medicines that change how the steroid is processed
- Blood thinners and medicines affecting potassium
Who should take care
- Do not stop suddenly after prolonged use; follow a tapering plan to avoid adrenal crisis
- Carry a steroid card and tell any healthcare professional you take it
- Tell your doctor about diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, ulcers, glaucoma or mental health conditions
- Avoid contact with chickenpox or measles if not immune, as infection can be severe
- Seek urgent care for signs of serious infection or adrenal crisis