Medicine Information

Dexam

Name: Dexam
Brand: Dexam
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet0.5 mgCorticosteroids (Systemic)ATC: H02AB02

Generic Name

Dexamethasone

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dexam 05 mg tablet	৳ 1.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive 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

Allergic reactions (e.g., severe asthma, skin rashes)

Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis)

Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis)

Respiratory disorders (e.g., severe asthma, COPD exacerbations)

Cerebral edema (due to tumors, surgery, or radiation)

Dosage

Adults

Dosage varies widely based on condition. Typical initial adult dosage ranges from 0.5 mg to 9 mg daily, divided into 2-4 doses. For acute conditions, higher doses may be used temporarily. Tapering is essential for long-term use.

Elderly

No specific dosage adjustment for elderly; however, caution is advised due to increased susceptibility to side effects. Start with lower doses and monitor closely.

Renal_impairment

No specific dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.

How to Take

Take orally, usually with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Follow your doctor's instructions precisely. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.

Mechanism of Action

Dexamethasone binds to glucocorticoid receptors, inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators and suppressing the immune response. It reduces inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and stabilizes lysosomal membranes.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Oral: 1-2 hours; Peak plasma concentration: 1-2 hours.

Excretion

Mainly through the urine as inactive metabolites.

Half life

Plasma half-life: 1.8-3.5 hours; Biological half-life: 36-54 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Metabolism

Primarily hepatic, mainly by CYP3A4.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
Live vaccines administration in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses
Active untreated infections (unless specifically indicated and appropriate anti-infective therapy is co-administered)

Drug Interactions

NSAIDs

Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.

Warfarin

Altered anticoagulant effects; monitor INR.

Antidiabetic agents

May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic therapy.

Diuretics (thiazide or loop)

Increased risk of hypokalemia.

Ketoconazole, Macrolide antibiotics

May increase Dexamethasone effects due to enzyme inhibition.

Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampicin

May decrease Dexamethasone effects due to enzyme induction.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Acute overdose is rare and generally not life-threatening. Symptoms may include fluid retention, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and gastrointestinal irritation. Management is supportive and symptomatic; gradually withdraw the drug if chronic overdose occurs.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk; advise caution or consider alternative feeding during lactation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets100 tablets

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved (Generic)

Patent Status

Off-patent (Generic)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Dexamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy in various inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic conditions. More recently, it gained prominence in trials for COVID-19 treatment.

Lab Monitoring

Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
Electrolyte levels (potassium, sodium)
Blood pressure
Bone density (for long-term therapy)
Ophthalmic exams (for long-term therapy)
Growth monitoring in children

Doctor Notes

Always advise patients on the importance of gradual tapering to prevent adrenal crisis.
Monitor blood glucose, blood pressure, and electrolytes regularly, especially in patients with co-morbidities.
Educate patients about signs of infection and when to seek immediate medical attention.
Consider bone density screening for patients on prolonged therapy.

Patient Guidelines

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not stop abruptly.
Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Report any unusual side effects or worsening of your condition immediately.
Wear a medical alert tag if you are on long-term corticosteroid therapy.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have infections.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

Dexamethasone generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or mood changes, avoid such activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet, potentially low in sodium and high in potassium, if advised by your doctor.
Engage in regular, moderate exercise to help maintain bone density and muscle strength.
Avoid alcohol and smoking as they can exacerbate certain side effects.