DexPak (Oral)

Generic name:dexamethasone (oral route) [ dex-a-METH-a-sone ]
Drug class:Glucocorticoids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 30, 2022.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Baycadron Elixer
• Decadron
• Dekpak 13 Day Taperpak
• Dexamethasone Intensol
• DexPak
• DexPak 10 Day TaperPak
• DexPak Jr
• Zema-Pak

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet
• Elixir
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Endocrine-Metabolic Agent

Pharmacologic Class: Adrenal Glucocorticoid

Uses for DexPak

Dexamethasone provides relief for inflamed areas of the body. It is used to treat a number of different conditions, such as inflammation (swelling), severe allergies, adrenal problems, arthritis, asthma, blood or bone marrow problems, kidney problems, skin conditions, and flare-ups of multiple sclerosis. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid (cortisone-like medicine or steroid). It works on the immune system to help relieve swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions.

Dexamethasone tablets are also used in combination with other anti-myeloma products for the treatment of adults with multiple myeloma.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before using DexPak

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of Hemady™ in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of dexamethasone in children. However, pediatric patients are more likely to have slower growth and bone problems if dexamethasone is used for a long time. Recommended doses should not be exceeded, and the patient should be carefully monitored during therapy.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of dexamethasone in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have osteoporosis (weak bones) and age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for elderly patients receiving dexamethasone.

Breastfeeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant ris...