B-Dexa
Generic Name
Dexamethasone 0.5 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| b dexa 05 mg tablet | ৳ 0.50 | ৳ 5.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 0.5-9 mg daily, divided; adjusted according to individual response and severity of condition. For specific conditions like COVID-19, typically 6 mg once daily for up to 10 days.
Elderly
Use with caution; lower initial doses may be considered due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment generally required for renal impairment, but caution advised due to fluid retention.
How to Take
Administer orally, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Mechanism of Action
Dexamethasone works by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus and regulates the transcription of various genes. This leads to the suppression of inflammatory mediators and immune responses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effect: within hours; IV: minutes.
Excretion
Mainly renal.
Half life
Biological half-life: 36-54 hours (plasma half-life is shorter, 3-4 hours).
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed orally.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live attenuated vaccines (when using immunosuppressive doses)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
Warfarin
May alter anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
Diuretics (potassium-depleting)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Phenytoin, Barbiturates, Rifampin
May decrease Dexamethasone effects by accelerating its metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include mood changes, muscle weakness, or gastrointestinal upset. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushing's syndrome.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk; advise caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live attenuated vaccines (when using immunosuppressive doses)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
Warfarin
May alter anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
Diuretics (potassium-depleting)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Phenytoin, Barbiturates, Rifampin
May decrease Dexamethasone effects by accelerating its metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include mood changes, muscle weakness, or gastrointestinal upset. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushing's syndrome.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk; advise caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Dexamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across various indications for decades, including recent studies on its efficacy in severe COVID-19.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels
- Electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
- Ophthalmic exams (for long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual tapering of dose to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor patients for signs of infection, especially with prolonged use.
- Counsel patients on potential long-term side effects and management strategies.
- Consider calcium and vitamin D supplementation for patients on long-term therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Dexamethasone abruptly; gradual tapering is required under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
- Take with food or milk to prevent stomach upset.
- Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your doctor.
- Avoid exposure to people with infections, especially chickenpox or measles, as your immunity may be lowered.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Dexamethasone may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, especially during long-term use.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise if possible.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.