Dexamethasone is a potent corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It is used to treat a wide range of inflammatory, allergic, autoimmune and other medical conditions.

Benefits:

• Reduces inflammation and swelling
• Suppresses excessive immune responses
• Used in severe allergic and inflammatory conditions
• Used in certain cancers and chemotherapy-related conditions
• Can reduce cerebral oedema in selected neurological conditions

Off-Label Uses:

• Prevention or treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting
• Some inflammatory and neurological conditions where specialist treatment is appropriate

Potential Side Effects:

• Increased blood glucose and appetite
• Fluid retention and increased blood pressure
• Insomnia and mood changes
• Stomach irritation

Common Use: Dose and duration vary greatly depending on the condition. Longer courses should generally be tapered rather than stopped suddenly because of adrenal suppression.

Note: Dexamethasone is a potent steroid. Prolonged or high-dose treatment requires medical monitoring.