What is dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is a synthetic pregnane corticosteroid and derivative of cortisol (hydrocortisone) and is also known as 1-dehydro-9α-fluoro-16α-methylhydrocortisone or as 9α-fluoro-11β,17α,21-trihydroxy-16α-methylpregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione. The molecular and crystal structure of dexamethasone has been determined by X-ray crystallography.

How is dexamethasone half-life reduced?

Inducers of hepatic microsomal enzymes such as barbiturates, phenytoin, and rifampicin can reduce the half-life of dexamethasone. Cotreatment with oral contraceptives can increase its volume of distribution. As a glucocorticoid, dexamethasone is an agonist of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR).

What are the long term effects of dexamethasone?

Long term use of high doses can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex. What should I avoid while taking dexamethasone? Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections.

Can dexamethasone be used with blood thinners?

Using dexamethasone with certain blood thinners can decrease the levels of these drugs in your body. This can make them less effective, and raise your risk of clots or stroke. Examples of these drugs include: Warfarin is also used to thin the blood.

Is dexamethasone effective for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Standard therapy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) has not been established. We are conducting a multicenter, prospective trial to determine the efficacy and safety of short-term, high-dose dexamethasone therapy in ITP patients aged 18-80 years with platelet counts of <20, 000 /μL, or with <50, 000/ μL and bleeding symptoms.

How does dexamethasone affect CYP 3A4 levels?

Drugs which inhibit CYP 3A4 ( e.g., ketoconazole, macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin) have the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. Dexamethasone is a moderate inducer of CYP 3A4. Co-adminstration with other drugs that are metabolized by CYP 3A4 ( e.g., indinavir,…

What is dexamethasone suppression test (DST)?

Dexamethasone Suppression Test (DST): False-negative results in the Dexamethasone suppression test (DST) in patients being treated with indomethacin have been reported. Thus, results of the DST should be interpreted with caution in these patients.

What is the role of dexamethasone in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea?

“Dexamethasone alone or in combination with ondansetron for the prevention of delayed nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy”. The New England Journal of Medicine. 342 (21): 1554–59. doi: 10.1056/NEJM200005253422102. PMID 10824073.

What are the instructions for taking dexamethasone?

Follow all instructions closely. Take in the morning if taking once a day. Take with food to prevent an upset stomach. To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses. Keep taking this medicine (dexamethasone tablets) as you have been told by your doctor or other health care provider, even if you feel well.

Can you cut or crush dexamethasone?

You can cut or crush the tablet. Storage. Keep dexamethasone tablets at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as