Dexamethasone

Question 1

Presentation

Answer 1

8mg in 2ml glass vial

Question 2

Pharmacology

Answer 2

A corticosteroid secreted by the adrenal cortex
Actions:
- relieves inflammatory reactions
- provides immunosuppression

Question 3

Primary emergency indications

Answer 3

1. Bronchospasm associated with acute respiratory distress not responsive to nebulised salbutamol
2. Moderate-severe croup
3. Acute exacerbation of COPD
4. Adult stridor (non-foreign body obstruction)

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

1. Known hypersensitivity

Question 5

Precautions

Answer 5

1. Solutions which are not clear or are contaminated should be discarded

Question 6

Route of administration

Answer 6

IV (administered over 1-3 minutes), oral, IM

Question 7

Side effects

Answer 7

Nil of significance

Question 8

Special notes

Answer 8

Does not contain an antimicrobial agent, therefore use solution immediately and discard any residue.
IV effects:
Onset 30-60mins
Peak 2 hours
Duration 36-72 hours