Medicine Information

Dextason

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

Injection5 mg/mLCorticosteroids, GlucocorticoidsATC: H02AB02

Generic Name

Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate 5 mg/mL Injection

Manufacturer

Generic Pharma Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dextason 5 mg injection	৳ 12.04	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used to treat various conditions, including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders.

Uses & Indications

Allergic and inflammatory disorders (e.g., severe asthma, allergic reactions)

Rheumatic disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus)

Dermatologic conditions (e.g., severe psoriasis, pemphigus)

Endocrine disorders (e.g., adrenal insufficiency)

Neoplastic diseases (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma)

Cerebral edema

COVID-19 in patients requiring supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation

Dosage

Adults

Dosage varies widely based on condition and severity, typically 0.5 mg to 20 mg daily, administered intramuscularly or intravenously. Consult physician for specific dosage.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients, but use with caution due to increased risk of side effects; lower initial doses may be considered.

Renal_impairment

No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but close monitoring for fluid and electrolyte balance is advisable.

How to Take

Administer slowly by intravenous (IV) injection or infusion, or by intramuscular (IM) injection. The route and rate depend on the specific clinical situation.

Mechanism of Action

Dexamethasone acts by binding to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene expression. This leads 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 for IV; 1-2 hours for IM).

Excretion

Mainly excreted in urine as metabolites.

Half life

Plasma half-life: 3.5-4.5 hours; Biological half-life: 18-36 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed after intravenous (IV) and intramuscular (IM) administration.

Metabolism

Primarily hepatic metabolism by CYP3A4 enzymes.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Hypersensitivity to dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses

Drug Interactions

NSAIDs

Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.

Warfarin

Altered anticoagulant effects; monitor INR.

Antidiabetics

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

Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)

Increased risk of hypokalemia.

Phenytoin, Barbiturates, Rifampin

May decrease corticosteroid effects by increasing metabolism.

Storage

Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.

Overdose

Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms are usually extensions of common side effects, such as fluid retention, hyperglycemia, and mood changes. Management is supportive and symptomatic.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies 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

1 x 5 mg/mL ampoule5 x 5 mg/mL ampoules10 x 5 mg/mL ampoules

Shelf Life

2 to 3 years from manufacturing date, when stored as recommended.

Availability

Hospitals, Pharmacies

Approval Status

Approved (widely established)

Patent Status

Off-patent (generic available)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Dexamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and anti-emetic effects, including its role in severe COVID-19.

Lab Monitoring

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

Doctor Notes

Emphasize the importance of gradual dose tapering when discontinuing long-term therapy.
Advise patients to report any signs of infection immediately, especially during high-dose therapy.
Monitor blood glucose, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels regularly in patients on prolonged therapy.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Report any signs of infection, mood changes, or unusual weight gain to your doctor.
Follow a low-sodium, high-potassium diet if advised by your doctor.
Monitor blood sugar regularly if you are diabetic.

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 to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Dexamethasone generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or visual disturbances, avoid such activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
Engage in regular, moderate exercise to maintain muscle strength.
Avoid contact with people who are sick or have infections, especially if on high doses.