Dexamethasone: Uses, Side Effects, and Mechanism of Action

Dexamethasone is a type of corticosteroid medication that is used to reduce inflammation in various medical conditions. It works by suppressing the immune response and reducing swelling, redness, and pain.

Dexamethasone FAQ

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How does dexamethasone work?

The activation of the GR by dexamethasone results in dose-dependent suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) and of production of endogenous corticosteroids by the adrenal glands, thereby reducing circulating endogenous concentrations of corticosteroids like cortisol and corticosterone.

Can dexamethasone cause side effects?

When used with dexamethasone, certain drugs used to treat fungal infections can increase the level of dexamethasone in your blood. This can raise your risk of side effects. Examples of these drugs include:

Is dexamethasone a glucocorticoid?

Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid medication used to treat rheumatic problems, a number of skin diseases, severe allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, croup, brain swelling, eye pain following eye surgery, superior vena cava syndrome (a complication of some forms of cancer), and along with antibiotics in tuberculosis.

Is dexamethasone a prescription?

It's available on prescription only and comes as tablets, soluble tablets and as a liquid you drink. It can be given by injection but this is usually only done in hospital. Dexamethasone also comes as eye drops and a spray to treat eye and ear infections. You usually take dexamethasone tablets or liquid once a day.

Is dexamethasone a steroid?

It can also help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment, or some of your symptoms if you're having end of life care. Dexamethasone is a type of medicine called a steroid (corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are a copy of a hormone your body makes naturally. They're not the same as anabolic steroids.

What are the side effects of dexamethasone?

You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling. These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital. These are not all the side effects of dexamethasone. For a full list see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.