
Precautions
In six ICSRs, the possible reason of hypokalemia was drug–drug interaction of AMAs like ceftriaxone, azithromycin, amphotericin B, and vancomycin with concomitant medications like furosemide, hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, and deriphyllin. The severity of hypokalemia in these cases ranged from mild to severe (Table 3).
Does dexamethasone cause hypokalemia?
It is based on dexamethasone and penicillin g potassium (the active ingredients of Dexamethasone and Penicillin, respectively), and Dexamethasone and Penicillin (the brand names). Other drugs that have the same active ingredients (e.g. generic drugs) are not considered. Dosage of drugs is not considered in the study.
Is dexamethasone a penicillin medication?
Yes..it's common to give the IV decadron po. Don''t know about zofran tho. FlyingScot, RN Specializes in Peds/Neo CCT,Flight, ER, Hem/Onc. Has 28 years experience. 2,016 Posts Feb 21, 2010 Yep, all the time. BrnEyedGirl, BSN, MSN, RN, APRN Specializes in Cardiac, ER. Has 18 years experience. 1,236 Posts Feb 21, 2010
Can you give Decadron IV Po?
To our knowledge, no other study has evaluated the pharmacokinetics of an intravenous dexamethasone formulation given orally. Some hospital formularies have been hesitant to adopt the use of DSPI orally because of a lack of pharmacokinetic data. We found DSPI is satisfactorily absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract.
Can IV dexamethasone be given orally?

Can dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection be given orally?
BACKGROUND: The injectable formulation of dexamethasone has been administered orally, for the treatment of pediatric asthma and croup. The practice is followed in emergency departments around the country, but pharmacokinetic data supporting this practice are lacking.
How is dexamethasone sodium phosphate administered?
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection can be given directly from the vial, or it can be added to Sodium Chloride Injection or Dextrose Injection and administered by intravenous drip.
How do you give dexamethasone orally?
The Dexamethasone Intensol™ solution is a concentrated liquid. Measure the concentrated liquid with the special oral dropper that comes with the package. The liquid should be added to water, juice, soda or a soda-like beverage, applesauce, or pudding. Stir the mixture well and drink or eat it right away.
Can you take dexamethasone by mouth?
Dexamethasone comes as a tablet and a solution to take by mouth. Your doctor will prescribe a dosing schedule that is best for you. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take dexamethasone exactly as directed.
Is dexamethasone oral or IV?
The use of corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy might be effective in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Oral administration of dexamethasone is a practical and safer alternative to the intravenous route.
What is the difference between dexamethasone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate?
Dexamethasone is a synthetic corticosteriod and possesses glucocorticoid activity. Dexamethasone sodium phosphate is a salt of dexamethasone that is particularly suitable for intravenous administration because it is highly water soluble, permitting administration of relatively large doses in a small volume of diluent.
How quickly does oral dexamethasone work?
6. Response and effectiveness. Peak effects of dexamethasone are reached within 10 to 30 minutes of administration; however, it may take a couple of days before any inflammation is well controlled.
What is oral dexamethasone?
Dexamethasone provides relief for inflamed areas of the body. It is used to treat a number of different conditions, such as inflammation (swelling), severe allergies, adrenal problems, arthritis, asthma, blood or bone marrow problems, kidney problems, skin conditions, and flare-ups of multiple sclerosis.
What is dexamethasone sodium phosphate used for?
DEXAMETHASONE (dex a METH a sone) is a corticosteroid. It is used to treat inflammation of the skin, joints, lungs, and other organs. Common conditions treated include asthma, allergies, and arthritis. It is also used for other conditions, like blood disorders and diseases of the adrenal glands.
Is it OK to swallow dexamethasone?
For other tablets, swallow them whole with a drink of water. Liquid dexamethasone comes with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the correct dose. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not give you the right amount.
How do you take dexamethasone 4mg?
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. Take with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Take the tablet form of this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
Is 4 mg of dexamethasone a lot?
Dexamethasone is given in usual doses of 0.5 to 10 mg daily, depending on the disease being treated. In more severe disease conditions doses above 10 mg per day may be required. The dose should be titrated to the individual patient response and disease severity.
What is a Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection?
Hexadrol Phosphate Injection (dexamethasone sodium phosphate) is a corticosteroid used to treat a number of conditions including arthritis, blood/hormone/immune system disorders, allergic reactions, certain skin and eye conditions, breathing problems, certain bowel disorders, and certain cancers.
How long does it take dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection to work?
10 mg IV or IM as a single dose, followed by 4 mg IV or IM every 6 hours, until symptoms subside, then reduce dosage. A response should be seen within 12 to 24 hours, and a gradual dose reduction begun after 2 to 4 days, reducing over another 5 to 7 days. Replace with oral dosage as soon as possible.
Is Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection a steroid?
Dexamethasone sodium phosphate, a synthetic adrenocortical steroid, is a white or slightly yellow crystalline powder.
What is oral dexamethasone?
Dexamethasone provides relief for inflamed areas of the body. It is used to treat a number of different conditions, such as inflammation (swelling), severe allergies, adrenal problems, arthritis, asthma, blood or bone marrow problems, kidney problems, skin conditions, and flare-ups of multiple sclerosis.
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Description
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection, USP is a water-soluble inorganic ester of dexamethasone which produces a rapid response even when injecte...
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Dosage and Administration
A. Intravenous or intramuscular administrationThe initial dosage of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection, USP may vary from 0.50 mg/day to 9.0...
How Is Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Supplied
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection, USP 4 mg/mL1-mL single dose vial, NDC 70069-022-011-mL single dose vial, box of 25, NDC 70069-022-255-mL...
Package LABEL.PRINCIPAL Display Panel
1 mL Container label1 mL Carton label5 mL Container label5 mL Carton label30 mL Container label30 mL Carton labelMedical Disclaimer
When should dexamethasone be discontinued?
The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory clinical response, Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection, USP should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. It should be emphasized that dosage requirements are variable and must be individualized on the basis of the disease under treatment and the response of the patient.
How long does it take for dexamethasone to be tapered off?
Oral dexamethasone, 1 to 3 mg t.i.d., should be given as soon as possible and dosage tapered off over a period of five to seven days. Nonoperative cases may require continuous therapy to remain free of symptoms of increased intracranial pressure.
When should the lowest dose of corticosteroid be used?
The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment , and when reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction must be gradual.
What is the drug of first choice for laryngeal edema?
Acute noninfectious laryngeal edema (epinephrine is the drug of first choice).
When oral therapy is not feasible and the strength, dosage form, and route of administration of the drug reasonably lend answer?
When oral therapy is not feasible and the strength, dosage form, and route of administration of the drug reasonably lend the preparation to the treatment of the condition, those products labeled for intravenous or intramuscular use are indicated as follows: Endocrine disorders.
Is dexamethasone a soluble solution?
It occurs as a white to creamy white powder, is exceedingly hygroscopic, is soluble in water and its solutions have a pH between 7.0 and 8.5. It has the following structural formula: Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Injection, USP is available in 4 mg/mL. Each mL of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injection contains Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate, ...
Can dexamethasone be used in tuberculosis?
The use of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Injection, USP in active tuberculosis should be restricted to those cases of fulminating or disseminated tuberculosis in which the corticosteroid is used for the management of the disease in conjunction with an appropriate anti-tuberculosis regimen.
Usual Adult Dose for Acute Mountain Sickness
Prevention of AMS and HACE: Usual dose: 2 mg orally every 6 hours OR 4 mg orally every 12 hours -Very High Risk Situations (e.g.
Usual Adult Dose for Cerebral Edema
Initial dose: 10 mg IV once, followed by 4 mg IM every 6 hours until maximal response is noted -After 2 to 4 days, dose should be reduced and then gradually discontinued over a period of 5 to 7 days Comments: -After symptoms subside, may switch to oral therapy (1 to 3 mg orally 3 times a day) and then taper gradually over 5 to 7 days. -In patients undergoing brain surgery, may continue treatment for several days postoperatively. -In nonoperative cases, continuous therapy may be needed to remain symptom-free. Use: For the treatment of cerebral edema..
Usual Adult Dose for Cushing's Syndrome
Dexamethasone Suppression Tests: -Short suppression test: 1 mg orally at 11 PM; draw plasma cortisol at 8 AM the following morning -Long suppression test: 0.5 mg orally every 6 hours for 48 hours; 24-hour urine collections are made before, during, and at the end of the test for determination of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids -Test to distinguish Cushing's syndrome: 2 mg orally every 6 hours for 48 hours; 24-hour urine collections are made before, during, and at the end of the test for determination of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids Comment: The long suppression test provides greater accuracy in diagnosing Cushing's syndrome. Uses: Diagnostic testing for Cushing's syndrome..
Usual Adult Dose for Shock
Unresponsive shock: 1 to 6 mg/kg IV as a single dose or up to 40 mg initially followed by repeat IV doses every 2 to 6 hours while shock persists Published protocols: 20 mg IV as a single dose followed by IV infusion of 3 mg/kg/24 hours 1 to 6 mg/kg IV as a single dose 40 mg IV as a single dose followed by repeat IV doses every 4 to 6 hours while shock persists Comments: -High-dose therapy should only be continued until patient's condition has stabilized and usually no longer than 48 to 72 hours. Use: For the treatment of unresponsive shock..
Usual Adult Dose for Multiple Myeloma
40 mg oral/IV on days 1, 8, 15, 22, and repeated every 4 weeks Comments: -This drug is a part of most major treatment regimens in multiple myeloma; treatment regimens should be consulted. -In regimens containing bortezomib, the day 1 dexamethasone dose may be split to provide 20 mg on the day of and 20 mg on the day after bortezomib. -Doses may need to be adjusted for performance status or other toxicities Use: For the treatment of multiple myeloma..
Usual Adult Dose for Multiple Sclerosis
Acute exacerbation: 30 mg orally once a day for 1 week followed by 4 to 8 mg orally every other day for 1 month Comments: -Short-term high-dose corticosteroids are an accepted standard of care for treating relapses of multiple sclerosis; chronic daily corticosteroids are not recommended. -IV methylprednisolone, oral prednisone and prednisolone are the corticosteroids most studied and cited in clinical guidelines; while this drug has been used, efficacy studies and comparative data are lacking. Use: For the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis..
Usual Adult Dose for Anti-inflammatory
Dosing should be individualized on the basis of disease and patient response Oral: -Initial dose: 0.75 mg to 9 mg orally per day Parenteral: -Initial dose: 0.5 mg to 9 mg IV or IM per day in divided doses every 12 hours Maintenance dose: After a favorable initial response, dose should be decreased in small amounts to the lowest dose that maintains an adequate clinical response; if a positive response is not achieved after a reasonable period of time, alternative therapy should be sought. Comments: -Lower doses, including doses lower than recommended doses, may suffice in less severe disease; doses in excess of recommended doses may be required in severe disease; in life-threatening situations, doses exceeding multiples of the oral dose may be justified. -When oral therapy is not feasible IV or IM therapy in doses ranging from one-third to one-half the oral dose may be given every 12 hours. -Patients should be closely monitored for signs requiring dose adjustments; if therapy is to be stopped after more than a few days, it should be gradually withdrawn. Uses: For use as a potent anti-inflammatory agent in managing disorders, diseases, and conditions affecting many organ systems including endocrine, dermatologic, ophthalmic, nervous.
Why is dexamethasone not prescribed?
Because it suppresses the immune system, dexamethasone isn’t usually prescribed when a person is at risk of developing an infection. However, it is sometimes used, with caution, to manage the effects of severe inflammatory reactions caused by infections. Bill Oxford / Getty Images.
What is dexamethasone used for?
While it can be used to treat a deficiency of naturally-occurring gluco corticoids, most commonly, dexamethasone is used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune conditions , like lupus and sarcoidosis.
How to take dexamethasone for acne?
Take the tablet form of the medication with a full glass of water (8 oz). To prevent stomach upset, it can be taken with food. Dexamethasone is typically used for treating chronic conditions, but it can be a short-term treatment for acne.
Which antibiotic can raise the concentration of dexamethasone in the body?
Erythromycin: This antibiotic can raise the concentration of dexamethasone in the body.
Can dexamethasone be life threatening?
Severe. Severe side effects of dexamethasone are rare and can be life-threatening. These side effects may require urgent medical intervention. If you experience serious side effects, do not abruptly stop taking dexamethasone, because that can cause withdrawal effects. Severe side effects include: 1 .
When is the recovery trial for dexamethasone?
Low-dose dexamethasone is one of several existing medications being investigated as potential treatments for COVID-19 infection in the RECOVERY (Randomised Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy) trial, which began in March 2020. It is being used to treat people suffering from severe complications, particularly patients on ventilators.
Can dexamethasone be used as a patch?
When used as a patch, cream, or eye drops, the medication is generally applied directly to the affected area .
Why is dexamethasone used in injections?
It decreases your immune system 's response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions. This injectable form of dexamethasone is used when a similar drug cannot be taken by mouth or when a very fast response is needed, especially in patients with severe medical conditions.
What is dexamethasone used for?
Dexamethasone is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood / hormone disorders, allergic reactions, skin diseases, eye problems, breathing problems, bowel disorders, cancer, and immune system disorders. It is also used as a test for an adrenal gland disorder ( Cushing's syndrome ).Dexamethasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It decreases your immune system 's response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions.This injectable form of dexamethasone is used when a similar drug cannot be taken by mouth or when a very fast response is needed, especially in patients with severe medical conditions. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of dexamethasone, especially if it is to be injected near your spine ( epidural ). Rare but serious side effects may occur with epidural use.
Can dexamethasone cause allergies?
Before using dexamethasone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Can you flush expired medication down the toilet?
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Does dexamethasone help with cancer?
WebMD Update: Dexamethasone, a steroid sometimes used for asthma, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis, could reduce deaths in hospitalized coronavirus patients with severe complications by about a third, according to a new study. Learn More
Does a sulfate med make your blood sugar rise?
This medication may rarely make your blood sugar rise , which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor.
Can you change your medication without your doctor's approval?
Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Why is dexamethasone used over tablets?
The rationale for using dexamethasone injection solution over tablets is that the drug is already dissolved, eliminating the need for crushing/grinding tablets and dissolving the powder. This method also prevents potential physical instability and microbial contamination.
How much alcohol is in dexamethasone?
Although dexamethasone oral liquid formulations are available in the United States, some of these contain 30% alcohol or have a lower concentration than is clinically practical. In some situations, toddlers and small children can require doses over 30 mL. [ 9] .
Why are parenteral syringes dangerous?
Use of parenteral syringes can be problematic because they can be accidently connected to an IV line.
How long is dexamethasone suspension stable?
This oral suspension was physically and chemically stable for up to 91 days with or without refrigeration. The rationale for using dexamethasone injection solution over tablets is that the drug is already dissolved, eliminating the need for crushing/grinding tablets and dissolving the powder. This method also prevents potential physical instability and microbial contamination.
Is dexamethasone a liquid?
Although dexamethasone oral liquid formulations are available in the United States, some of these contain 30% alcohol or have a lower concentration than is clinically practical. In some situations, toddlers and small children can require doses over 30 mL. [9] Consequently, these commercially available products may increase the risk for adverse effects from excipients and may also lead to nonadherence in a pediatric population.
How long after radiation can you take dexamethasone?
Postradiation days: Oral, IV: The appropriate duration of therapy following radiotherapy days is not well defined; ASCO guidelines recommend continuing dexamethasone 4 mg once on the day after each day of radiation if radiation is not planned for that day (ASCO [Hesketh 2020a]).
How much NEPA is in a pill?
In combination with aprepitant, fosaprepitant, netupitant/palonosetron (NEPA), or fosnetupitant/palonosetron: Oral, IV: 12 mg.
How much cachexia is prescribed for cancer?
Cancer-related cachexia (off-label use): Oral: 3 to 4 mg once daily; short-term therapy (weeks) is recommended, although duration of treatment depends on treatment goals and risk/benefit assessment (ASCO [Roeland 2020]) or 3 to 6 mg/day for up to 4 weeks (Tuca 2013).
Can dexamethasone be used for post chemo?
Postchemotherapy days: Note: Consider single-agent dexamethasone use for regimens containing agents with known potential to induce delayed emesis (eg, oxaliplatin, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin) (ASCO [Hesketh 2020a]; MASCC/ESMO [Roila 2016]); a single-day dexamethasone regimen may be employed when utili zing palonosetron (Komatsu 2015); however, if a first-generation 5-HT 3 antagonist was used on day 1 rather than palonosetron, some experts suggest the first-generation 5-HT 3 receptor antagonist be continued for postchemotherapy emetic prophylaxis on days 2 and 3 (Hesketh 2020b).
Is dexamethasone an antiemetic?
When checkpoint inhibitor therapy is administered in combination with emetogenic chemotherapy, there is no evidence to omit dexamethasone from the prophylactic antiemetic regimen (ASCO [Hesketh 2020a]).
Is dexamethasone a fluorinated corticosteroid?
Dexamethasone is classified as a fluorinated corticosteroid. When systemic corticosteroids are needed in pregnancy for rheumatic disorders, nonfluorinated corticosteroids (eg, prednisone) are preferred. Chronic high doses should be avoided for the treatment of maternal disease (ACR [Sammaritano 2020]).
Does Dexamethasone have a receptor antagonist?
Dexamethasone dose depends on specific neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor antagonist: Day of chemotherapy: Administer prior to chemotherapy and in combination with an NK 1 receptor antagonist, and a 5-HT 3 receptor antagonist, with or without olanzapine (ASCO [Hesketh 2020a]; MASCC/ESMO [Roila 2016]).

Uses
Dexamethasone is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood/hormone disorders, allergic reactions, skin diseases, eye problems, breathing problems, bowel disorders, cancer, and immune system disorders. It is also used as a test for an adrenal gland disorder (Cushing's syndrome).
May Treat: Cerebral edema · Burkitt's lymphoma · Crohn's disease · Diamond Blackfan anemia · Hodgkin's lymphoma and more
Brand Names: Decadron Phosphate · ReadySharp dexamethasone · Dexonto · AK-Dex · Adrenocot and more
Drug Class: Glucocorticoids · Nasal Corticosteroids · Ophthalmic - Anti-inflammatory, Glucocorticoids
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
May Treat: Cerebral edema · Burkitt's lymphoma · Crohn's disease · Diamond Blackfan anemia · Hodgkin's lymphoma and more
Brand Names: Decadron Phosphate · ReadySharp dexamethasone · Dexonto · AK-Dex · Adrenocot and more
Drug Class: Glucocorticoids · Nasal Corticosteroids · Ophthalmic - Anti-inflammatory, Glucocorticoids
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
Lactation: Consult a doctor before using
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
Before Taking
Dosage
Side Effects
Warnings and Interactions
- Your healthcare provider may require diagnostic testing, like blood tests or imaging tests, before prescribing dexamethasone for something like an inflammation condition. Blood tests can confirm a high white blood cell count consistent with inflammation, and imaging tests can confirm swelling or fluid accumulation indicative of edema. Typically, when dexamethasone is u…