Common brand names

• Decadron

How it is administered

Dexamethasone is available in several forms for administration:

• Oral tablets: Common strengths include 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2 mg, 4 mg, and 6 mg.
• Oral solution: Available as 0.5 mg per 5 mL and as a concentrated solution (1 mg/mL).
• Ophthalmic (eye) drops: Typically 0.1% suspension for topical use in the eye.
• Otic (ear) drops: Combined with antibiotics for ear infections.
• Intravitreal implant: For injection into the eye, used for certain eye conditions.

The method of administration and dosage will depend on the specific condition being treated and your doctor’s instructions.

How it works

Dexamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid, which means it mimics the effects of hormones produced naturally by your adrenal glands. It works by suppressing inflammation and modifying the body's immune response. This is achieved by inhibiting the production of substances that trigger inflammatory and immune responses, such as cytokines and other signaling molecules.

In blood cancers and related conditions like Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), dexamethasone is primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and control immune-related complications. In some blood cancers, it is also used as part of chemotherapy regimens to help reduce side effects from other drugs and to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

Because dexamethasone reduces immune activity, it can also lower your body’s ability to fight infections, so it is important to use it under close medical supervision.

Who should take it

Dexamethasone is prescribed for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Certain skin and eye diseases
• Endocrine disorders (such as adrenal insufficiency)
• Blood disorders, including some types of anemia and as palliative management in leukemias and lymphomas
• Management of inflammation in various organs
• As part of chemotherapy regimens for blood cancers and to help manage side effects

In the context of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), dexamethasone may be used to help control symptoms or complications related to the disease or its treatment, although it is not a primary therapy for MDS itself. Your doctor will determine if dexamethasone is appropriate for your specific situation based on your diagnosis and overall health.

Who should not take it

Dexamethasone should not be taken by individuals who:

• Have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to dexamethasone or any of its components
• Have systemic fungal infections
• Are receiving live or live-attenuated vaccines while on immunosuppressive doses

Caution is also needed in people with:

• Active or latent infections (such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B, or herpes)
• Uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, or osteoporosis
• History of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Eye diseases such as glaucoma or herpes simplex

Always inform your doctor of your full medical history before starting dexamethasone, as it can interact with many conditions and medications.

Commonly used with

Dexamethasone is often used in combination with other medications, especially in the treatment of blood cancers. For example:

• As part of chemotherapy regimens with drugs such as cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin
• With other immunosuppressive agents in certain autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
• With antibiotics or antifungals if there is a risk of infection due to immune suppression

Your doctor will tailor your medication plan to your specific needs and monitor for interactions.

Commonly tested with

Dexamethasone is commonly tested in clinical trials and treatment protocols with:

• Chemotherapy agents for blood cancers (such as multiple myeloma, leukemia, and lymphoma)
• Other corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs
• Supportive care medications to manage side effects (like anti-nausea drugs or antibiotics)

It is also used in diagnostic tests, such as the dexamethasone suppression test for Cushing’s syndrome. In the context of blood cancers and MDS, its use is generally as part of a broader treatment strategy.