Class: Adrenals
VA Class: NT200
CAS Number: 50-02-2
Brands: Dexpak
Introduction
Synthetic glucocorticoid; minimal mineralocorticoid activity.
Uses for Dexamethasone (Systemic)
Treatment of a wide variety of diseases and conditions principally for glucocorticoid effects as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant agent and for its effects on blood and lymphatic systems in the palliative treatment of various diseases.
Usually, inadequate alone for adrenocortical insufficiency because of minimal mineralocorticoid activity.
Adrenocortical Insufficiency
Corticosteroids are administered in physiologic dosages to replace deficient endogenous hormones in patients with adrenocortical insufficiency.
Because production of both mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids is deficient in adrenocortical insufficiency, hydrocortisone or cortisone (in conjunction with liberal salt intake) usually is the corticosteroid of choice for replacement therapy.
If dexamethasone is used, must also administer a mineralocorticoid (fludrocortisone), particularly in infants.
In suspected or known adrenal insufficiency, parenteral therapy may be used preoperatively or during serious trauma, illness, or shock unresponsive to conventional therapy.
In shock, IV therapy in conjunction with other therapy for shock is essential; hydrocortisone is preferred, but a synthetic glucocorticoid like dexamethasone can be substituted.
Adrenogenital Syndrome
Lifelong glucocorticoid treatment of congenital adrenogenital syndrome.
In salt-losing forms, cortisone or hydrocortisone is preferred in conjunction with liberal salt intake; a mineralocorticoid may be necessary in conjunction through at least 5–7 years of age.
A glucocorticoid, usually alone, for long-term therapy after early childhood.
In hypertensive forms, do not use dexamethasone because of tendency toward overdosage and growth retardation....
