Dexamethasone tablets and liquid

What dexamethasone tablets and liquid are for

Dexamethasone is a type of medicine called a steroid (or corticosteroid).

Steroids reduce swelling and inflammation. They're different to anabolic steroids, which some people use illegally to help build bigger muscles.

Dexamethasone tablets and liquid are used to treat many different conditions, including:

• some lung conditions, such as croup and asthma
• autoimmune conditions (where the immune system attacks itself) such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
• some cancers, such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, combined with other cancer treatments

Dexamethasone is sometimes given in hospital to treat severe COVID.

It can also be used to ease some of the symptoms associated with end-of-life care or chemotherapy, such as feeling or being sick (nausea and vomiting).

How to take dexamethasone tablets and liquid

Dexamethasone usually comes as tablets or a liquid you swallow (oral solution).

How much you need to take and how long for depends on which type it is and why you're taking it.

You usually take it once a day, in the morning. Your prescribed dose may go up or down depending on your symptoms and if your condition gets better or worse.

When taking dexamethasone:

• swallow tablets whole with water, or break them in half to make them easier to swallow – if you have soluble tablets dissolve them in a glass of water and then drink it
• if you're taking the liquid medicine, use the syringe or spoon that comes with it to help you measure the right dose
• take it with or after food to help protect your stomach

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

If a child is prescribed dexamethasone, they'll have their height checked regularly by their doctor. This is because steroids can sometimes affect how children grow.

Depending on your condition and how long you need to take dexamethasone for, you may be given a card to carry with you. This is to let healthcare professionals know you’re taking this medicine.

Dexamethasone also comes as an injection, but this is usually given in hospital.

If you miss a dose of dexamethasone tablets or liquid

If you forget to take a dose of dexamethasone, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose.

If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.

If you take too much dexamethasone tablets or liquid

Taking an extra dose of dexamethasone is unlikely to cause problems, but it's important to get medical advice if you take too much as it can sometimes be dangerous.

How to stop taking dexamethasone tablets and liquid

Do not stop taking dexamethasone without talking to a doctor first. Your doctor may reduce how much you take gradually, as stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms or make your condition worse.

Side effects of dexamethasone tablets and liquid

Like all medicines, dexamethasone tablets and liquid can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

Common side effects of dexamethasone include:

• feeling anxious or irritable
• wanting to eat more than usual and putting on weight
• problems sleeping (insomnia)
• headaches
• feeling sick (nausea) and indigestion
• blurred vision

Dexamethasone will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery. But if you have blurred vision after taking dexamethasone, wait until this has stopped.

Serious side effects

Dexamethasone tablets and liquid can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.

Possible serious side effects of dexamethasone include:

• an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing
• mood changes that can include low mood and having suicidal thoughts, or feeling unusually high or like you have lots of energy (mania)
• Cushing's syndrome – causing symptoms such as unexplained weight gain, a puffy face, muscle weakness, dizziness, excessive hair growth or hair loss
• adrenal insufficiency – causing symptoms such as vomiting, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, mood changes or feeling dizzy, faint or very tired
• a weakened immune system – making you more likely to get infections

Who can and cannot take dexamethasone tablets and liquid

Most adults and children can take dexamethasone tablets and liquid.

But dexamethasone is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:

• you've had an allergic reaction to dexamethasone or another steroid medicine
• you have an infection that’s not currently being treated
• you have high blood pressure, heart failure or recently had a heart attack
• you have an underactive thyroid, or liver or kidney problems
• you have diabetes or a history of diabetes in your family
• you have epilepsy
• you have a stomach ulcer, or a bowel condition such as ulcerative colitis or diverticulitis
• you have osteoporosis
• you've ever had problems with your mental health
• you've recently been vaccinated using a live vaccine, such as for chickenpox or yellow fever

Before taking dexamethasone, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

Breastfeeding and dexamethasone tablets and liquid

Dexamethasone can sometimes be taken while breastfeeding, but check with a doctor first. They may recommend a different medicine for you.

If you're taking dexamethasone while breastfeeding, your baby will be monitored to make sure they are feeding and putting on weight as expected. Speak to a healthcare professional or call NHS 111 if you have any concerns about your baby.

Pregnancy and dexamethasone tablets and liquid

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant.

Dexamethasone can be used during pregnancy, if needed. Your doctor will talk to you about the risks and benefits of taking it while pregnant.

It’s occasionally been linked to problems when taken in early pregnancy and may affect your baby's growth.

Find out more about taking dexamethasone during pregnancy on the Bumps (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) website

Taking dexamethasone tablets and liquid with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with dexamethasone tablets and liquid.

This includes:

• other steroids (corticosteroids) such as hydrocortisone
• some antibiotics such as erythromycin
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• medicines to treat diabetes, such as insulin and metformin
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin
• some medicines for high blood pressure, such as verapamil
• epilepsy medicines, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine
• medicines that make you pee more (diuretics)

If you’re due to have a vaccine for tuberculosis (TB), yellow fever, chicken pox, or any other live vaccine, tell the doctor or pharmacist that you’re taking dexamethasone.

Before taking dexamethasone, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

Food, drink and alcohol with dexamethasone tablets and liquid

It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking dexamethasone, as it can increase the chance of side effects.

Your doctor may also recommend cutting back on the amount of salt and caffeine you have. Otherwise you can eat and drink normally when taking dexamethasone.