Dexamethasone (50ml) Injection – Anti-Inflammatory Corticosteroid | 1 Vial

Description

Dexamethasone Injection is a potent corticosteroid used to treat severe inflammation, allergic reactions, certain cancers, and immune-related disorders. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation. This injection is commonly used in hospitals for conditions such as severe asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, cerebral edema, septic shock, and COVID-19 management (as adjunct therapy).

Ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate

• Concentration: (varies per brand, typically 4mg/ml)

• Excipients: Water for injection and stabilizers

Drug Class

• Corticosteroid (Glucocorticoid)

Dosage Form

• Injection (solution for IV, IM, or intra-articular use)

• Strength: Typically 4mg/ml in 50ml vial

Uses / Indications

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis adjunct, asthma, hay fever)

• Rheumatic disorders (rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, gout)

• Skin diseases (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis)

• Eye inflammation (as adjunct therapy)

• Respiratory conditions (severe asthma, COPD exacerbations)

• Brain swelling (cerebral edema, brain tumors)

• Certain cancers (as part of chemotherapy regimen)

• Septic shock (adjunctive treatment)

• Autoimmune diseases (lupus, vasculitis)

• COVID-19 (hospitalized patients requiring oxygen/ventilation)

Dosage

💉 Administered under medical supervision only

• Adults: Dose depends on condition and severity; ranges from 0.5mg – 24mg daily

• IV/IM injection: May be given in divided doses

• Cerebral edema: 10mg IV initially, then 4mg every 6 hours

• Children: Dose based on weight and condition

In Case of Overdose

• Symptoms: Cushing’s syndrome (moon face, weight gain), high blood sugar, hypertension, fluid retention, confusion

• Management: Supportive care; no specific antidote

Missed Dose

• If scheduled hospital dose is missed, consult doctor

• Do not double dose or self-inject without supervision

How To Use

• Administered intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), intra-articularly, or soft tissue injection

• Given by healthcare professionals only

• Do not self-administer unless instructed

When Not to Use / Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to dexamethasone or excipients

• Systemic fungal infections

• Caution in patients with active tuberculosis or untreated infections

• Recent live vaccination

Side Effects

Common:

• Increased appetite, weight gain

• Mood changes, restlessness, anxiety

• Stomach upset, indigestion

• Headache

Serious:

• Cushingoid appearance (moon face, buffalo hump)

• High blood sugar/diabetes

• Osteoporosis with long-term use

• Increased risk of infections

• Visual disturbances (cataracts, glaucoma)

• Stomach ulcers/bleeding

Precautions & Warnings

• Long-term use can cause adrenal suppression and osteoporosis

• Taper gradually after prolonged use — avoid sudden discontinuation

• Monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and bone health during treatment

• Use cautiously in children (may affect growth)

• Avoid close contact with infectious patients (chickenpox, measles)

Drug Interactions

• NSAIDs/aspirin → ↑ risk of stomach bleeding

• Anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin) → altered clotting effect

• Antidiabetics → reduced effect due to hyperglycemia

• Cytochrome P450 inducers (rifampin, phenytoin) → reduced corticosteroid levels

• Vaccines → reduced efficacy and increased infection risk

Storage / Disposal

• Store at 20–25°C, away from direct light

• Do not freeze

• Discard vial safely after use as per biomedical waste rules

Control Drug / Prescription Status

• Prescription-only medicine

Quick Tips

• Dexamethasone is not a painkiller, but reduces inflammation and immune response

• Inform your doctor about long-term corticosteroid use before surgery

• Do not stop suddenly after prolonged use — tapering is necessary

• Carry a steroid treatment card if on long-term therapy

• Avoid alcohol and NSAIDs to reduce stomach irritation risk