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💊 Dexamethasone Tablet 4 mg
✅ DESCRIPTION
Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and anti-allergic properties. It mimics the effects of glucocorticoids naturally produced by the adrenal glands but is significantly more potent and long-acting.
⚖️ COMPOSITION
- Each tablet contains:
- Dexamethasone 4 mg
- Inactive ingredients (excipients): q.s.
📌 THERAPEUTIC USES
Dexamethasone 4 mg tablets are used in the management of:
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Severe allergic conditions (e.g., anaphylaxis adjunct, asthma)
- Dermatologic conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis)
- Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma – often used with chemotherapy)
- Cerebral edema (especially in brain tumors)
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Severe COVID-19 (hospitalized patients needing oxygen support)
🌟 ADVANTAGES
- High potency and long duration of action
- Minimal mineralocorticoid activity → less fluid retention
- Effective in emergency and chronic treatment situations
- Useful as part of chemotherapy or antiemetic regimens
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Use cautiously in patients with:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Osteoporosis
- Psychiatric illness (can induce mood changes)
- Active infections (e.g., TB, fungal, viral)
- Long-term use → adrenal suppression, Cushingoid features, bone loss
- Taper slowly if used for more than a few days to prevent adrenal crisis
- Pregnancy Category C: Use only if benefits outweigh risks
❌ SIDE EFFECTS
Common or significant side effects include:
- Hyperglycemia, fluid retention, hypertension
- Increased infection risk, impaired wound healing
- Gastritis, peptic ulcers
- Weight gain, buffalo hump, moon face
- Mood changes, insomnia, psychosis
- Osteoporosis, muscle weakness
💊 DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION
- Typical adult dose: 0.5 mg to 10 mg daily in divided or single dose
- Dose for cancer or cerebral edema may be higher
- Always use the lowest effective dose
- Tapering required after prolonged therapy
- Adjust according to condition severity, response, and patient profile
📦 PACKING
- Available in strips (usually 10 or 15 tablets) or bulk bottles
- Film-coated or plain tablets depending on brand
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at room temperature (below 25°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children