DEXARED INJECTION
DEXAMATHASONE 4MG/1ML
What it does
Dexamethasone is a strong medicine that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system.
Commonly used for: inflammation, allergic reactions, certain cancers, autoimmune diseases …
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:05:37 · updated 2026-08-03 04:05:52
About this medicine
Dexamethasone is a strong medicine that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system.
What it treats
- inflammation
- allergic reactions
- certain cancers
- autoimmune diseases
- severe infections
How it works
It works by blocking substances in the body that cause inflammation and allergic reactions.
Who it's for
It is used for adults and children with conditions that require reduced inflammation or immune response.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: dexamathasone
Dexamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid medication that is primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It mimics the effects of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and is utilized in various medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases, allergic reactions, and certain cancers. Dexamethasone is effective in managing conditions that involve excessive inflammation or immune responses.
Indications
- Asthma
- Allergic reactions
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Certain cancers (e.g., lymphomas)
- Cerebral edema
- Adrenal insufficiency
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the relevant clinical guidelines or BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Dexamethasone exerts its effects by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, which then translocates to the nucleus and regulates the expression of various genes. This leads to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and other mediators of inflammation, as well as the promotion of anti-inflammatory proteins. The resulting effect is a reduced inflammatory response and modulation of immune system activity.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of dexamethasone include potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. It reduces the migration of inflammatory cells to sites of injury, inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators, and alters the immune response. These actions make dexamethasone effective in treating conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of cancer.
Pharmacokinetics
Dexamethasone is well-absorbed after oral administration, with its bioavailability approaching 80%. It has a high volume of distribution and is extensively bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin and transcortin. The drug is metabolized primarily in the liver, with a half-life ranging from 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route of administration. Elimination occurs mainly through the urine as metabolites, with minimal unchanged drug excreted.
Contra-indications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to dexamethasone or any of its components
- Live or live attenuated vaccines in immunocompromised patients
Adverse effects
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., peptic ulcers)
- Osteoporosis
- Cushing's syndrome
- Mood changes, including euphoria or depression
- Hypertension
- Hyperglycemia
- Skin thinning and easy bruising
Interactions
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects
- Anticoagulants may have altered effects due to changes in protein binding
- Antidiabetic agents may require dosage adjustment due to altered glucose metabolism
- Vaccines may be less effective or may cause systemic disease in vaccinated individuals
Precautions
- Use caution in patients with diabetes, hypertension, or active peptic ulcer disease
- Monitor for signs of infection, particularly in long-term therapy
- Gradual tapering of dose is recommended to avoid adrenal insufficiency after prolonged use
- Caution in patients with a history of psychiatric disorders
Pregnancy
Dexamethasone is classified as Category C. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised, especially with prolonged treatment.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Injectable solution
- Topical ointment
- Eye drops
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.