Sonexa
Generic Name
Dexamethasone
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
sonexa 5 mg injection | ৳ 20.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used in a wide range of conditions, including allergic disorders, dermatological diseases, rheumatic disorders, and certain cancers.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Varies widely based on condition and severity, typically 0.5-24 mg/day. For acute severe conditions, 4-20 mg IV/IM, repeated as needed.
Elderly
Use with caution, lowest effective dose; monitor for side effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment generally required, but monitor for fluid retention and electrolytes.
How to Take
Administered by a healthcare professional intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). Can also be given locally (e.g., intra-articular or intralesional).
Mechanism of Action
Dexamethasone binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, then translocates to the nucleus to modify gene expression, leading to reduced inflammation and immune response.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
IV: within minutes; IM: 1-8 hours.
Excretion
Primarily renal (kidneys) as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Plasma half-life: 3-4.5 hours; Biological half-life: 36-54 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed after intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) administration.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic (liver) by CYP3A4.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or other corticosteroids
- Live vaccines (in high doses)
- Cerebral malaria (specific forms)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
Warfarin
May alter anticoagulant effects; monitor INR.
Insulin/oral hypoglycemics
May require dose adjustment due to Dexamethasone's hyperglycemic effect.
Diuretics (thiazide and loop)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin
May decrease Dexamethasone effects due to increased metabolism.
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are rare but may include fluid retention, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and psychiatric disturbances. Management is supportive; in chronic overdose, gradual withdrawal of the drug is necessary to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus. Dexamethasone passes into breast milk and may affect infant growth and endogenous corticosteroid production; use with caution or consider alternatives.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to Dexamethasone or other corticosteroids
- Live vaccines (in high doses)
- Cerebral malaria (specific forms)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
Warfarin
May alter anticoagulant effects; monitor INR.
Insulin/oral hypoglycemics
May require dose adjustment due to Dexamethasone's hyperglycemic effect.
Diuretics (thiazide and loop)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin
May decrease Dexamethasone effects due to increased metabolism.
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are rare but may include fluid retention, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and psychiatric disturbances. Management is supportive; in chronic overdose, gradual withdrawal of the drug is necessary to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus. Dexamethasone passes into breast milk and may affect infant growth and endogenous corticosteroid production; use with caution or consider alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Varies by manufacturer, typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date. Check the expiry date on the product label.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Dexamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy in various inflammatory, autoimmune, and oncological conditions. Recent trials have also explored its role in COVID-19 management.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels
- Electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone density (for long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children (for long-term use)
- Ocular pressure (for long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of gradual tapering for prolonged courses to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor patients closely for signs of infection, especially those on immunosuppressive doses.
- Regularly assess blood pressure, blood glucose, and electrolytes. Consider bone density assessment for long-term users.
- Educate patients on potential mood changes and encourage reporting any psychological disturbances.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop Dexamethasone abruptly, especially after prolonged use, without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to adrenal insufficiency.
- Report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat) immediately.
- Monitor blood sugar regularly if you are diabetic.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Avoid contact with people who have chickenpox or measles if you have not had them.
Missed Dose Advice
Since this is an injection administered by a healthcare professional, contact your doctor or nurse if you miss an appointment for a dose. Do not attempt to self-administer or double a dose.
Driving Precautions
Dexamethasone may cause dizziness, vertigo, or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced, low-sodium, high-potassium, and calcium-rich diet.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise (if advised by your doctor) to maintain bone health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol intake and smoking.
- Practice stress management techniques.
- Ensure adequate sleep.
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