Dexamethasone Flashcards
1
Q
Presentation
A
8 mg in 2 mL glass vial
2
Q
Pharmacology
A
A corticosteroid released by the adrenal cortex
Actions:
- relieves inflammatory reactions
- provides immunosuppression
3
Q
Metabolism
A
By the liver and other tissues; excreted predominantly by the kidneys
4
Q
Primary emergency indications
A
- bronchospasm associated with acute respiratory distress not responsive to nebuliser salbutamol
- moderate- severe croup
- acute exacerbation of COPD
5
Q
Contraindications
A
- H.S
6
Q
Precautions
A
solutions which are not clear or are contaminated should be discarded
7
Q
Route of administration
A
IV (administered over 1-3 minutes), oral
8
Q
Side effects
A
Nil of significance
9
Q
Special notes
A
Does not contain antimicrobial agent, therefore use solution immediately and discard any residue
IV effects
onset: 30-60 minutes
peak: 2 hours
duration: 36-72 hours
10
Q
Dose
A
Dose: 8mg oral/IV
Paediatric dose: 600 mcg/kg IV/Oral (max 12mg)
