Decafos
Generic Name
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate
Manufacturer
Generic Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| decafos 5 mg injection | ৳ 22.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Decafos 5 mg Injection contains Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate, a potent synthetic corticosteroid used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It is primarily used to treat various conditions such as allergic disorders, dermatological diseases, endocrine disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, hematological disorders, neoplastic diseases, nervous system disorders, ophthalmic diseases, renal diseases, and respiratory diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on condition and severity, typically 0.5 mg to 9 mg daily, given intravenously or intramuscularly. For severe conditions, higher doses may be used (e.g., 4-20 mg IV initially, then 2-4 mg IV/IM every 4-6 hours).
Elderly
Lower initial doses may be considered; caution advised due to increased risk of side effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required, but caution is advised in severe cases.
How to Take
Administered by a healthcare professional intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). IV administration should be slow.
Mechanism of Action
Dexamethasone acts by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates into the nucleus and alters gene expression. This leads to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins (e.g., lipocortin-1) and inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins, leukotrienes, cytokines).
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset (within minutes to hours depending on route and condition).
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Biological half-life is 36-54 hours; plasma half-life is 3.5-4.5 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed after intramuscular or intravenous administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Live attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses
Drug Interactions
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)
Can increase Dexamethasone levels.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Rifampicin)
Can decrease Dexamethasone levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include Cushingoid features, electrolyte imbalance, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal is necessary if chronic overdose.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Live attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses
Drug Interactions
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)
Can increase Dexamethasone levels.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Rifampicin)
Can decrease Dexamethasone levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include Cushingoid features, electrolyte imbalance, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal is necessary if chronic overdose.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date when stored correctly.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, cerebral edema, and as an antiemetic. Ongoing research explores new applications and formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure
- Blood glucose
- Electrolytes (especially potassium)
- Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
- Intraocular pressure (for long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Taper dosage gradually to avoid adrenal crisis if used long-term.
- Monitor for signs of infection, hyperglycemia, and electrolyte imbalance.
- Consider gastroprotective agents if concurrent NSAID use or history of peptic ulcer.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop this medicine suddenly, especially after prolonged use, without consulting your doctor.
- Report any signs of infection (fever, sore throat) immediately, as corticosteroids can mask symptoms.
- Avoid contact with people who have chickenpox or measles if you have not had them or been vaccinated.
- Carry a steroid treatment card if you are on long-term therapy.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Dexamethasone may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some patients. If these occur, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Limit sodium intake to reduce fluid retention.
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise (if appropriate) to help maintain bone density.
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International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.