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Dexamethasone

Systems	General Systemic
Category	Glucocorticoid.

Pharmacokinetics

The bio-availablity of Dexamethasone is about 80 % after oral administration. It is metabolised in the liver .

Indications

It is used to reduce inflammation .Dexamethasone is used in swelling, erythema, pruritis, allergic reactions,arthritis and in bronchial asthma.

Routes of Administration and Dosage

Oral dose (elixir, solution, tablets): Adults =0.5 to 5 mgs per day, as a single dose or as multiple doses. Parenteral dose : Adults = 4 to 20 mgs per day as I.V infusion or I.M injection.For topical use ;0.01% cream, applied as a thin film 2-3 times daily.

Contra Indications

Contraindications are infections( like chickenpox, measles, ocular herpes), diabetes mellitus( corticosteroids may cause hyerglycaemia), Hypertension ( dexamethasone increases the blood pressure).

Precautions

Allergic reactions to Dexamethasone may occur. Diet: If this drug is used for a prolonged period, adequate precautions must be taken when patients are following a low-salt diet and/or a potassium-rich diet.Extra protein must be added to the diet. .Precaution has to be taken in osteoporosis and in renal disease,elderly,pregnacy and during lactation.

Interactions

Efficacy is reduced when combined with phenytoin,phenobarbitone, ephedrine and rifampicin. Dexamethasone may increase the plasma level of phenytoin. G.I absorption is reduced by magnesium trisilycate.Dexamethasone reduces the efficacy of salicylates.

Brand Names

Decdan (Merind), Demizon-Kit (Plethico), Dexamag (Shalaks), Dexona (Cadila Healthcare), Idizone (IDPL), Millicortenol (Novartis), Wymesone (Wyeth Lederle)