Dexamethasone

Question 1

What Is Dexamethasone’s Pharmacology

Answer 1

Dexamethasone is a Corticosteriod that

• Relieves Inflammatory reactions &
• Provides Immunosuppression.

Inhibition of inflammatory cells and suppression of expression of inflammatory mediators.

Question 2

What is Dexamethasone’s Presentation and how is it Metabolized

Answer 2

Presentation
- 8mg in 2ml

Metabolized
- By the liver and other tissues and Excreted by the Kidney.

Question 3

What are the Indications and Contraindications of Dexamethasone.

Indications (BAAM)

Answer 3

Indications (BAAM)

• Bronchospasm associated with acute respiratory distress, not responsive to Nebulised Salbutomol
• Acute Exacerbation of COPD
• Adult Stridor (non foreign body obstruction).
• Moderate - Severe Croup

Contraindication
- Hypersensitivity

Question 4

What are the Side Effects and Precautions of Dexamethasone.

Answer 4

Side Effects
- Nil significance.

Precautions.
- Solutions that are not clear or are contaminated should be discarded.

Question 5

Special Notes/ Route of Administration

Answer 5

Route of Administration
IV (Over 1- 3 minutes)

Special Notes

• Does not contain and antimicrobial agent, therefore discard immediately after use.
• Onset: 30 - 60 Minutes
• Peak: 2 Hours
• Duration: 36 - 72 hours.