Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Taking steroid tablets for less than 3 weeks is unlikely to cause any significant side effects. The effects of dexamethasone are frequently seen within a day and last for about three days. These changes are more likely to occur when steroids are taken in large doses. Fadul CE, Lemann W, Thaler HT, Posner JB "Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract in patients receiving steroids for neurologic disease." Dexamethasone is given on and off label, by mouth or injection, to treat various inflammatory, autoimmune, and adrenal gland conditions. Steroids can affect the immune, musculoskeletal, and endocrine systems, the skin, the heart and blood pressure, the gastrointestinal tract, and the eyes. Cushing syndrome indicates that you have an abnormally high level of cortisol. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Ann Pharmacother 28 (1994): 1411, 15. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. One of the most troubling side effects in the president's case, especially as he is discharged from the hospital, is that the steroid can make the patient look and feel healthier than they are. Mayo Clinic facts about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Our COVID-19 patient and visitor guidelines, plus trusted health information, Mayo Clinic Health System patient vaccination updates. RARE side effects. Side Effects Of Prednisone, Prednisolone, And Dexamethasone In Cats osteoporosis, pathologic fracture of long bones, postinjection flare, tendon rupture, particularly of the Achilles tendon, vertebral compression fractures, myalgia, muscle atrophy, osteonecrosis, neuropathic arthralgia, growth retardation[Ref], Frequency not reported: Acne, allergic dermatitis, dry scaly skin, ecchymosis, hirsutism, petechiae, erythema, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, impaired wound healing, increased sweating, rash, sterile abscess, striae, suppressed reactions to skin tests, thin fragile skin, thinning scalp hair, urticaria, hypertrichosis, angioedema, skin atrophy, hyperhidrosis, pruritus, burning or tingling especially in the perineal area (after IV injection), telangiectasia, pigment disorders[Ref], Frequency not reported: Leucocytosis, lymphopenia, eosinopenia, polycythemia, abnormal coagulation, polymorphonuclear leukocytosis[Ref], Frequency not reported: Menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea, increased or decreased motility and number of spermatozoa, increased urine calcium[Ref], Frequency not reported: Hepatomegaly, elevation in liver enzymes[Ref], Frequency not reported: Opportunistic infection, exacerbation of latent infections, decreased resistance to infection, immunosuppression, candidiasis, chicken pox (varicella), Frequency not reported: Vertigo, abnormal fat deposits, malaise, sterile abscess, impaired healing, fatigue, malaise, Frequency not reported: Hiccups, pulmonary edema, 1. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Dose may be the most important risk factor for the development of steroid-induced psychosis, particularly when 80 mg of oral prednisone (dexamethasone dose equivalent of 12 mg po) or greater are prescribed (3,9-10). Lymphoma. aspirin, prednisone, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, albuterol, meloxicam, naproxen, fluticasone nasal, fluticasone, lorazepam. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), and press 0 once the call is connected. 4. © 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). De… Godel V, Regenbogen L, Stein R "On the mechanism of corticosteroid-induced ocular hypertension." Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them: Applies to dexamethasone: compounding powder, inhalation aerosol with adapter, injectable solution, injectable suspension, intravenous solution, oral concentrate, oral liquid, oral tablet, The most commonly occurring side effects have included alteration in glucose tolerance, behavioral and mood changes, increased appetite, and weight gain; the incidence generally correlates with dosage, timing of administration, and duration of treatment. Ludvik B, Clodi M, Kautzky-Willer A, Capek M, Hartter E, Pacini G, Prager R "Effect of dexamethasone on insulin sensitivity, islet amyloid polypeptide and insulin secretion in humans." Decadron (dexamethasone) is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid. A recent study on COVID 19 says that this drug helps to treat breathing problems in patients. Your child's doctor will watch your child's growth carefully while your child is using dexamethasone injection. Still, even at lower doses, idiosyncratic psychiatric effects are known to occur. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Schmidt GB, Meier MA, Sadove MS "Sudden appearance of cardiac arrhythmias after dexamethasone." Clin Neuropharmacol 10 (1987): 453-7, 6. There are a range of less common side effects, too, like stomach cramps, back ache, and bloody or tarry stools. Dexamethasone is used to reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease. If you are exposed to chicken pox, measles, or tuberculosis (TB) while taking dexamethasone, call your doctor. The following are less common side effects (occurring in >10%) for patients receiving dexamethasone: Headaches Dizziness Mood swings Cataracts and bone thinning (with long-term use) This list includes common and less common side effects for individuals taking dexamethasone. Mycosis fungoides (a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma).Dexamethasone is also used alone or with other drugs to prevent or treat the following conditions related to cancer: 1. Allergic reaction: Dexamethasone may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases. The long-term use of dexamethasone may result in thrush, bone loss, cataracts, easy bruising, or … You may report them to the FDA. Neurology 38 (1988): 348-52, 10. "Product Information. All rights reserved. [Ref], A wide range of psychiatric reactions including affective disorders (e.g., irritable, euphoric, depressed, labile mood, and suicidal ideation) psychotic reactions (e.g., mania, delusions, hallucinations, aggravation of schizophrenia), behavioral disturbances, irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances and cognitive dysfunction (e.g., confusion, amnesia) have been reported. Long term, high dose dexamethasone usually will produce predictable and potentially serious side effects. 2. Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate (dexamethasone)." You may notice that your ankles and feet are swollen. fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse, swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs, Abdominal or stomach cramping and/or burning (severe) or pain, heartburn and/or indigestion (severe and continuous), vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds, Abnormal fat deposits on the face, neck, and trunk, reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin. Am J Dis Child 128 (1974): 671-3, 19. This content does not have an Arabic version. It's best to take it in the … Along with its needed effects, dexamethasone may cause some unwanted effects. My husband is having a terrible time his legs and arms are so weak he can barely walk. Talk to your child's doctor about the risks of giving this medication to your child. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. It stands out for its anti-inflammatory power. Also, you may experience symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, weakness, or muscle/joint pain. The severity of these effects depends on the dose and duration of treatment. Possible Side Effects of Dexamethasone. Diabetologia 36 (1993): 84-7, 13. A dexamethasone suppression test is primarily used to help diagnose Cushing syndrome. Use of dexamethasone and other steroids can cause increases in blood pressure, salt and water retention, and potassium and calcium excretion. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. 2. A complication of steroid and immunosupressive therapy." Side Effects of Dexamethasone Dexamethasone is used to treat health conditions such as immune system disorder, a blood disorder, skin disorder, arthritis, and eye condition. Leukemia. Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2021. Dexamethasone — credited with improving the survival of severe covid-19 patients in a study — has side effects, including “psychic derangements,” according to the drug label. Dexamethasone. Our general interest e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Prolonged use (I.e., used for more than two weeks) may be associated with adverse events such as glaucoma, cataract, fluid retention, hypertension, psychological effects (e.g., mood swings, memory issues, confusion or irritation), weight gain, or increased risk of infections and osteoporosis. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking dexamethasone: Par Pharmaceutical Inc (formerly Qualitest Pharmaceuticals Inc), Huntsville, AL. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Dexamethasone (dexamethasone)." Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) 4. Schedule your appointment now for safe in-person care. This can be quite upsetting. "Product Information. Spenney JG, Eure CA, Kreisberg RA "Hyperglycemic, hyperosmolar, nonketoacidotic diabetes. High blood pressure. Common side effects include increased drinking, urination and/or appetite, dull/dry haircoat, weight gain, pot-bellied appearance, muscle weakness, panting, vomiting, or diarrhea. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, FREE book offer — Mayo Clinic Health Letter, Time running out - 40% off Online Mayo Clinic Diet ends soon. Anemia. J Clin Oncol 4 (1986): 221-3, 18. Special instructions for dexamethasone If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Last updated on Sep 30, 2020. swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs, Abdominal or stomach cramping and/or burning (severe) or pain, vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds, Abnormal fat deposits on the face, neck, and trunk, reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin. If experienced, these tend to have a Severe expression i. an infection due to a fungus. Br J Dermatol 131 (1994): 296-7, 12. Short courses of dexamethasone usually are well tolerated with few and mild side effects. Dexamethasone Withdrawal Side Effects - Brain tumors. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. This drug makes you more susceptible to illnesses. 3. (Abnormally low cortisol levels can be a sign of Addisons disease, which is not diagnosed by this test.) Sechi GP, Piras MR, Demurtas A, Tanca S, Rosati G "Dexamethasone-induced schizoaffective-like state in multiple sclerosis: prophylaxis and treatment with carbamazepine." Applies to dexamethasone: oral elixir, oral solution, oral tabletAlong with its needed effects, dexamethasone may cause some unwanted effects. bruising. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 43 (1976): 1283-93, 14. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. Dizziness a… Dexamethasone injection may cause children to grow more slowly. In addition, they can cause psychological and neurological problems, affecting cognition, mood, and behavior. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 1 Apr 2021), Cerner Multum™ (updated 5 Apr 2021), ASHP (updated 6 Apr 2021) and others. 3. Dexamethasone is a known synthetic glucocorticoid that is derived from cortisol and is capable of long-lasting action. By contrast, dexamethasone can have a whole host of side effects, which means doctors have to judiciously use it. McDonnell M, Evans N "Upper and lower gastrointestinal complications with dexamethasone despite H2 antagonists." Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. But you may get some side effects if you need to take them for longer or at a high dose. Hum Exp Toxicol 12 (1993): 52, 9. You might have eye problems including: bloating, muscle weakness, or. Eye problems. JAMA 222 (1972): 1185. "Product Information. Diabetes 18 (1969): 107-10, 16. Ann Ophthalmol 10 (1978): 191-6, 17. Dexamethasone is approved to be used to reduce inflammation and suppress (lower) the body's immune response.It is used with other drugs to treat the following types of cancer: 1. People who use dexamethasone injection for a long time may develop glaucoma or cataracts. Tsoi WW "Cushing's syndrome caused by analgesic/dexamethasone preparation." Signs of possible infection, such as high fever, productive cough, pain while passing urine, or large “boils” on the skin should have prompt medical attention. Francois J "Corticosteroid glaucoma." Side effects of steroid tablets. changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist). 3. New MI, Peterson RE, Saenger P, Levine LS "Evidence for an unidentified ACTH-induced steroid hormone causing hypertension." Dexamethasone can cause side effects in certain animals. Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the body during high levels of stress. Applies to dexamethasone: oral elixir, oral solution, oral tablet. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information -. cough. Kanwar AJ, Kaur S, Dhar S, Ghosh S "Hiccup--a side-effect of pulse therapy." 2. fifthmoon. If you have a history of tuberculosis, exposure to tuberculosis, or a positive skin test for tuberculosis, report this to your doctor. [Ref], Frequency not reported: Bradycardia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac enlargement, circulatory collapse, congestive heart failure, fat embolism, hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in premature infants, myocardial rupture following recent myocardial infarction, syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, vasculitis, edema[Ref], Corticosteroids can cause a dose-dependent inhibition of growth in infancy, childhood, and adolescence due to it causing early closure of the epiphyses, which may be irreversible. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 51 (1980): 433-7, 7. Rao G, Zikria EA, Miller WH, Samadani SR, Ford WB "Cardiac arrhythmias after dexamethasone." In case of a severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse or pharmacist at 901-595-3300. J Paediatr Child Health 31 (1995): 152-4, 11. Hyperactivity and jitters 7. Dexamethasone can induce a feeling of euphoria, which some health experts worry could make a COVID patient feel fully recovered, even if they are still battling the virus. Difficulty in breathing or swallowing. “Let down” or withdrawal effect 2. Ann Ophthalmol 9 (1977): 1075-80, 20. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of … Available for Android and iOS devices. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using dexamethasone injection and how often you should have your eyes examined during your treatment. Merck & Co, Inc, West Point, PA. 5. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking dexamethasone: Some side effects of dexamethasone may occur that usually do not need medical attention. a feeling of general discomfort called malaise. Long-term side effects are seen over time if a cat has been prescribed long-term treatment with oral corticosteroids. Dermatology 187 (1993): 279, 8. Do not have a vaccination, other immunization, or any skin test while you are taking … JAMA 221 (1972): 1402-4, 21. Can I use expired neomycin and polymyxin b sulfates, dexamethasone ophthalmic? These reactions have been reported in adults and children. Personality changes or mood alterations 6. Rare instances of severe allergic reactions ( anaphylaxis) have occurred in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy such as dexamethasone. Copyright © 2021 IBM Watson Health. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. My husband has brain cancer and was on Dexamethasone the doctor is now cutting back on the meds. It can also be used off label as a diagnostic test. Even with an abnormally high result, your doctor may recommend further tests to diagn… [Ref], Frequency not reported: Suppression of growth in pediatric patients, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads, calcinosis, Charcot-like atrophy, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, steroid myopathy. Fluid retention and loss of potassium can be a problem for patients who have cardiac conditions, especially congestive heart failure and hypertension. Side Effects What are the side effects of Decadron (Dexamethasone (Injection))?. Dexamethasone can be given in several different forms, including injections, tablets, inhalants, and creams. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them: Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. drooping of the upper eyelids. Jaime Vazquez J "Persistent hiccup as a side-effect of dexamethasone treatment." Whitmore SE "Dexamethasone injection-induced generalized dermatitis." Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." West-Ward Pharmaceutical Corporation, Eatontown, NJ. [Ref], Frequency not reported: Depression, affective disorders, anxiety, emotional instability, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, psychic disorders, confusional states, anxiety, abnormal behavior, irritability, aggravated schizophrenia[Ref], Frequency not reported: Convulsions, headache, increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudotumor cerebri) usually following discontinuation of treatment, benign intracranial hypertension, neuropathy[Ref], Frequency not reported: Abdominal distention, nausea, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, perforation of the small and large intestine, ulcerative esophagitis, gastric hemorrhage, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, flatulence[Ref], Frequency not reported: Anaphylactoid reaction, anaphylaxis, angioedema[Ref], Frequency not reported: Cushingoid state, hirsutism, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness (particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery, or illness), moon face[Ref], Frequency not reported: Decreased carbohydrate and glucose tolerance, hyperglycemia, glycosuria, manifestations of latent diabetes, hypokalemic alkalosis, potassium loss, sodium retention, increased appetite, negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism, weight gain, metabolic acidosis, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, dyslipidemia[Ref], Frequency not reported: Exophthalmos, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, posterior subcapsular cataracts, blindness, chorioretinopathy, worsening of symptoms associated with corneal ulcers, retinopathy of prematurity, blurred vision[Ref], Rare instances of blindness have been associated with corticosteroid intralesional therapy around the face and head.