Medicine Information

Dexon

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

Injection (Solution)5 mg/mLCorticosteroidsATC: H02AB02

Generic Name

Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dexon 5 mg injection	৳ 16.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Dexon 5 mg injection contains Dexamethasone, a potent synthetic glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions requiring corticosteroid therapy.

Uses & Indications

Severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, severe asthma)

Cerebral edema associated with tumors

Shock (adjunctive therapy)

Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, severe dermatological conditions)

COVID-19 in patients requiring supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation

Dosage

Adults

Dosage varies greatly depending on the condition being treated and patient response. Typically ranges from 0.5 mg to 20 mg daily via IV or IM route. Acute severe conditions may require higher initial doses.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects and comorbidities. Start with lower doses.

Renal_impairment

Dose adjustment is generally not necessary, but caution is advised with fluid retention in severe renal impairment.

How to Take

Dexon injection can be administered intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), or locally (e.g., intra-articular). The specific route depends on the condition and physician's discretion. IV administration should be slow.

Mechanism of Action

Dexamethasone binds to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates into the nucleus. This complex modulates gene expression, leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and suppressing immune responses.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Rapid, within minutes to hours depending on the route and condition being treated.

Excretion

Excreted predominantly in the urine as inactive metabolites.

Half life

Plasma half-life is 3-4 hours; biological half-life is 36-72 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly and completely absorbed following intramuscular (IM) and intravenous (IV) administration.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver, mainly by CYP3A4 enzymes.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
Administration of live or live attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy

Drug Interactions

Antidiabetic agents

Dexamethasone can increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication.

Diuretics (especially potassium-depleting)

Increased risk of hypokalemia.

CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenytoin, Rifampin)

May decrease dexamethasone levels and effectiveness.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)

May increase dexamethasone levels and risk of side effects.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Do not freeze.

Overdose

Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Management is primarily supportive and symptomatic, as there is no specific antidote.

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; caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

1 x 1 mL ampoule5 x 1 mL ampoules10 x 1 mL ampoules

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from the manufacturing date when stored correctly.

Availability

Available in hospitals and pharmacies

Approval Status

Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Off-patent (Generic available)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Dexamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials, including the landmark RECOVERY trial for COVID-19, which showed its benefit in reducing mortality in severely ill patients.

Lab Monitoring

Blood glucose levels
Electrolyte balance (especially potassium)
Blood pressure
Bone mineral density (for long-term therapy)

Doctor Notes

Crucial to taper the dose gradually after prolonged therapy to prevent adrenal crisis.
Monitor patients for signs of infection, hyperglycemia, and electrolyte imbalances.
Consider calcium and vitamin D supplementation for patients on long-term therapy to mitigate osteoporosis risk.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, especially after prolonged use, as it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Report any unusual symptoms such as extreme tiredness, severe nausea, vomiting, or dizziness to your doctor immediately.
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

This medicine may cause dizziness or changes in mood in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet, potentially low in sodium and rich in potassium and calcium, to counteract some side effects.
Engage in regular, moderate exercise to help maintain bone density and muscle strength.