Decadron (Dexamethasone) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 7, 2012

Decadron

Ulcerative Colitis »

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammation of the large intestine (colon). The colon is the part of the digestive system where waste material is stored. The rectum is the end of the colon adjacent to the anus. In patients with ulcerative colitis, ulcers and inflammation of the inner lining of the colon lead to symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Ulcerative colitis is closely related to another condition of inflammation of the intestines called Crohn's disease. Together, they are frequently referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's diseases are chronic conditions that can last years to decades. They affect approximately 500,000 to 2 million people In the United States. Men and women are affected equally. They most commonly begin during adolescence and early adulthood, but they also can begin during childhood and later in life.

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Decadron

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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

Decadron (dexamethasone) is a corticosteroid, is similar to a natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is used to treat arthritis, skin, blood, kidney, eye, thyroid, intestinal disorders, severe allergies, and asthma. Decadron is also used to treat certain types of cancer and occasionally, cerebral edema. Decadron is available as a generic termed dexamethasone; however the brand name Decadron is no longer available in the U.S. Side effects of Decadron may include GI symptoms (nausea, vomiting), headache, acne or skin rash, increased hair growth, irregular menstrual periods, easy bruising, and anxiety, or depression.

Decadron is available in strengths of 0.5 and 0.75 mg tablets. Side effects of Decadron listed above may become severe; in addition other severe effects include GI bleeding, increased susceptibility to many types of infections, and swelling. Decadron should be used during pregnancy or during breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant. Infants may suffer adrenal suppression if their mothers use this drug during pregnancy. In special instances (for example, leukemia and nephrotic syndrome), Decadron has been used in pediatric patients. Such use should be done in most patients in conjunction with a pediatric specialist.

Our Decadron Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements, and diseases, and conditions.

What are the precautions when taking dexamethasone (Decadron)?

Before taking dexamethasone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: active fungal infections.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: other infections (e.g., tuberculosis, herpes), kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood conditions (e.g., psychosis, anxiety, depression), low blood minerals (e.g., low potassium/calcium),...

Read All Potential Precautions of Decadron »

Last reviewed on RxList: 6/12/2007
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.