Decadron is the brand name of the prescription drug Dexamethasone which is manufactured by Morton Grove Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The drug is classified as a steroid drug and it belongs to the glucocorticoid class. They are available as tablets in strengths of 0.5 mg and 0.75 mg.
Indications
Dexamethasone is prescribed to manage the pain of rheumatoid arthritis as well as other types of arthritis. As it belongs to the class of corticosteroids, it helps to control allergies and bring down swellings by acting on the body’s natural defense system. The drug is also prescribed for hormonal or immune disorders, allergies, for the vomiting and nausea after chemotherapy and for certain respiratory problems. The drug is used in Cushing’s syndrome tests as well.
Action
This drug, being a glucocorticoid is easily absorbed into the bloodstream from the gastric tract. This is an anti-inflammatory which is used for many ailments in the body. The drug is also used to treat the body’s immune responses in case it is needed.
Side Effects
The drug does have some side effects – some of them can be serious in a small number of people so you should be careful to call the doctor immediately if you notice or feel anything that is not normal. Side effects could include insomnia, dizziness, headaches, menstrual cycle disturbances, an increase in the appetite and weight gain. Some of them are mild enough to be ignored but if you have any of the serious side effects that follow, you should take care. These side effects include change in heartbeat, acid reflux, mood swings, unnatural hair growth, bleeding for no reason, seizures and swellings. The mental side effects could include depression and agitation and these need to be treated at once. You could also experience joint pain, fever or a sore throat.
Caution
If you have been on this drug for a while, you must remember to follow your doctor’s instructions when it comes to discontinuing it. There could be reactions like fever and headaches when this drug is stopped. Corticosteroids must not be stopped abruptly unless it is on the advice of the doctor. If used for too long, the body becomes dependent on these drugs. Patients on these drugs should avoid being exposed to measles or chickenpox and must inform their doctor at once in case that happens.
Contraindications
This drug is contraindicated in people who are allergic to this class of drugs. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding would also do well to avoid it as well as people who are suffering from any serious ailment of the heart, kidney or liver.