Guide To Dexamethasone

Potential Side Effects

Headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and mood changes are some of the more frequently reported side effects of this medication. During treatment, patients may feel anxious, and they could be irritable, aggressive, or agitated as well. Some individuals may experience symptoms of depression. Trouble with speech, thinking, and walking could also occur. Weight gain is another potential side effect. Some patients will also notice dizziness and decreased urination. Patients may feel that their heartbeat is slower or faster than what is normal for them. They could develop an irregular heart rhythm as well. The arms and legs may feel numb or tingly, and the feet and hands could swell. It is relatively common to have an increased appetite during treatment. Patients should let their doctor know immediately if they experience any of these effects.

Less common side effects are abdominal swelling and pain, backache, eye pain, and skin lightening. The face may become red, and hair loss could occur. While using dexamethasone, patients should talk with their doctor about any side effects that are persistent or troublesome. They may suggest ways to manage the side effects, including changing the dose or switching to a different medication.

Discover the precautions to remember with this drug next.

Precautions To Remember

Individuals with fungal infections should not use dexamethasone. Before prescribing this medicine, the doctor needs to know about the patient's medical history. In particular, patients should mention any history of liver disease, thyroid issues, diabetes, malaria, or osteoporosis. This medication could increase the patient's glucose levels, so doctors may need to prescribe a different medicine for individuals with diabetes. Additionally, patients should let their doctor know about any history of high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, congestive heart failure, or depression. This drug suppresses the immune system. Thus, patients who take it are at a higher risk of developing infections.

When they are taking this medication, individuals should contact their prescribing physician immediately if they believe they have been exposed to measles or chickenpox. Urgent treatment may be necessary to prevent serious complications. Patients who take dexamethasone should not receive any vaccines that contain live viruses. They should also be aware that the drug could reduce the amount of protection they get from vaccines. Individuals who want to stop taking this medication should talk to a doctor about how to safely do so. Patients could experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking this medicine.

Get the details on the potential medication interactions next.