Common brand names

• Decadron

How it is administered

Dexamethasone can be taken by mouth as tablets or oral solution, and it is also available as an injectable form for use in hospitals. For oral use, tablets are available in strengths such as 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2 mg, 4 mg, and 6 mg. Oral solutions are also available in different concentrations. The injectable form is typically administered by healthcare professionals.

There are also eye drops and intravitreal implants for specific eye conditions, but these are not used for blood cancers.

How it works

Dexamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid, which means it mimics the effects of hormones produced by your adrenal glands. It works mainly by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. In the context of blood cancers like chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), dexamethasone is often used to help manage symptoms or as part of chemotherapy regimens to reduce inflammation, control allergic reactions, or decrease nausea caused by other cancer treatments.

Dexamethasone's anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects are due to its ability to block the production of substances in the body that cause inflammation and immune responses. This can help reduce swelling, pain, and other symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment. It also helps to decrease the body's immune response, which can be useful in certain cancer therapies.

Who should take it

Dexamethasone is used in the palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia. It may be prescribed as part of a chemotherapy regimen, to help control symptoms such as inflammation, allergic reactions, or to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with cancer treatments.

It is also used in a wide range of other conditions, including severe allergies, skin diseases, endocrine disorders, and as supportive care for other illnesses. In blood cancers, it is often used in combination with other medications to maximize its effectiveness.

Who should not take it

Dexamethasone should not be taken by people who have systemic fungal infections or who are allergic to any of its components. It should also be avoided in patients with certain viral infections (such as herpes simplex of the eye, varicella, or measles), unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.

People with active or untreated infections, or those who have had recent vaccinations with live or live-attenuated vaccines, should not use dexamethasone unless instructed by their doctor. It is important to discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider before starting dexamethasone.

Commonly used with

Dexamethasone is often used with other chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of blood cancers. It may be combined with medications such as cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin, or with targeted therapies and immunotherapies depending on the specific treatment plan.

It is also commonly used with anti-nausea medications to help manage side effects of cancer treatment.

Commonly tested with

In clinical studies and treatment regimens for blood cancers, dexamethasone is frequently tested in combination with other chemotherapy agents (such as cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin), monoclonal antibodies, and targeted therapies. It is also tested as part of supportive care protocols to reduce inflammation and manage side effects of other treatments.