Oncodex
Generic Name
Dexamethasone
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| oncodex 4 mg tablet | ৳ 4.53 | ৳ 45.33 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Oncodex 4 mg Tablet contains Dexamethasone, a potent synthetic corticosteroid. It is widely used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects in various conditions, including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders. It is also used in certain cancer treatments and to manage cerebral edema.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely depending on the condition being treated and patient response. Typically ranges from 0.75 mg to 9 mg daily in divided doses. For acute conditions, higher initial doses may be used, followed by tapering.
Elderly
Generally, the same dosage as adults, but caution is advised due to increased susceptibility to side effects and co-morbidities. Start with the lowest effective dose.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for renal impairment, but careful monitoring is advisable.
How to Take
Take Oncodex 4 mg Tablet orally, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
Mechanism of Action
Dexamethasone acts by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, leading to a conformational change that allows the receptor-ligand complex to translocate into the nucleus. Here, it modulates gene expression, upregulating anti-inflammatory proteins and downregulating pro-inflammatory proteins, thus exerting potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects can begin within a few hours, but full therapeutic effects may take days.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Plasma half-life is 1.8-3.5 hours; biological half-life is 36-54 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Systemic fungal infections
- •Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or any component of the formulation
- •Live or attenuated live vaccines (during immunosuppressive doses)
Drug Interactions
Live vaccines
Avoid during immunosuppressive doses of Dexamethasone.
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May alter anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampin, Carbamazepine
May decrease Dexamethasone effects due to increased metabolism.
Ketoconazole, Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., Erythromycin)
May increase Dexamethasone effects due to decreased metabolism.
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. Symptoms may include adrenal insufficiency, fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal of the drug if chronic overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, specific expiry date mentioned on packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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