💉 Dexamethasone Injection 4 mg/mL
📘 Description:
- Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and immunosuppressive properties.
- Form: Injectable solution
- Strength: 4 mg/mL
- Route: Intravenous (IV), Intramuscular (IM), or Slow IV push
- Available in: 1 mL or 2 mL vials or ampoules
🩺 Medical Uses / Indications:
| Use | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Severe inflammation | Due to arthritis, asthma, or autoimmune disorders |
| Anaphylaxis (along with adrenaline) | Reduces delayed allergic response |
| Cerebral edema | Lowers intracranial pressure |
| Shock (septic, spinal trauma) | Used as adjunct therapy |
| Chemotherapy-induced nausea | As part of antiemetic regimen |
| COVID-19 (severe) | Helps reduce lung inflammation |
| Endocrine emergencies (Addisonian crisis) | Corticosteroid replacement |
✅ Advantages:
- Fast-acting, especially via IV
- Long duration of action (36–72 hours)
- High potency with low mineralocorticoid activity (less water retention)
- Broad utility – from allergic reactions to cerebral edema
⚠️ Precautions:
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation if used for >7 days — taper slowly
- Use with caution in:
- Diabetes (raises blood glucose)
- Hypertension (can increase BP)
- GI ulcers
- Ongoing infections (may mask symptoms)
- Avoid in fungal infections unless under specialist care
- Pregnancy Category C – use only if necessary
🧊 Storage:
- Store below 25°C (77°F)
- Protect from light and do not freeze
- Use aseptically; discard unused portion if vial is single-dose
🗣️ Nursing & Patient Tips:
- Monitor blood glucose, BP, and electrolytes during prolonged use
- Observe for signs of infection or GI bleeding
- Watch for psychological effects (mood changes, confusion)
- Always administer under supervision in hospital or clinical setting