Dexium Injection

Generic name: dexamethasone injection
Dosage form: FOR ANIMAL USE ONLY

NOT FOR USE IN HUMANS

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

DESCRIPTION: Dexamethasone Solution is a synthetic analogue of prednisolone, having similar but more potent anti-inflammatory therapeutic action and diversified hormonal and metabolic effects. Modification of the basic corticoid structure as achieved in Dexium® offers enhanced anti-inflammatory effect compared to older corticosteroids. The dosage of Dexium® required is markedly lower than that of prednisone and prednisolone. Dexium® is not species-specific; however, the veterinarian should read the sections on INDICATIONS, DOSAGE, SIDE EFFECTS, CONTRAINDICATIONS, PRECAUTIONS, and WARNINGS before this drug is used. Dexium® is intended for intravenous or intramuscular administration. Each mL contains 2 mg dexamethasone, 500 mg polyethylene glycol 400, 9 mg benzyl alcohol, 1.8 mg methylparaben and 0.2 mg propylparaben as preservatives, 4.75% alcohol, HCl to adjust pH to approximately 4.9, water for injection q.s.

EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES: Experimental animal studies on dexamethasone have revealed it possesses greater anti-inflammatory activity than many steroids. Veterinary clinical evidence indicates dexamethasone has approximately 20 times the anti-inflammatory activity of prednisolone and 70 to 80 times that of hydrocortisone. Thymus involution studies show dexamethasone possesses 25 times the activity of prenisolone. In reference to mineralcorticoid activity, dexamethasone does not caused significant sodium or water retention. Metabolic balance studies show that animals on controlled and limited protein intake will exhibit nitrogen losses on exceedingly high dosages.

INDICATIONS: Dexium® is indicated for the treatment of primary bovine ketosis and as an anti-inflammatory agent in the bovine and equine. As supportive therapy, Dexium® may be used in the management of various rheumatic, allergic, dermatologic, and other diseases known to be responsive to anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. Dexium® may be used intravenously as supportive therapy when an immediate hormonal response is required.

Bovine Ketosis

Dexium® is offered for the treatment of primary ketosis. The gluconeogenic effects of Dexium®, when administered intramuscularly, are generally noted within the first 6 to 12 hours. When Dexium® is used intravenously, the effects may be noted sooner. Blood sugar levels rise to normal levels rapidly and generally rise to above norm...