Dexamethasone: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Dexamethasone is a powerful corticosteroid (steroid) medicine. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, injections, and eye and ear drops.
How Dexamethasone works
Dexamethasone copies the action of the body’s natural steroid hormone cortisol, strongly calming inflammation and the immune system.
What is Dexamethasone used for?
- Severe allergic reactions
- Flare-ups of asthma, COPD and croup
- Inflammatory and autoimmune conditions
- Swelling around brain tumours
- Preventing nausea from cancer treatment
- Severe COVID-19 in hospital
- Eye and ear drops: inflammation
Side effects of Dexamethasone
Not everyone gets side effects. The ones reported more often are:
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Raised blood sugar
- Mood changes and trouble sleeping
- Indigestion
- Higher risk of infections
Get medical help for signs of infection such as fever, black stools or vomiting blood, very high blood sugar, severe mood changes, or vision problems.
Precautions and warnings
- Do not stop it suddenly if you have taken it for more than a few weeks. Your doctor will reduce the dose gradually.
- Steroids should never be used to gain weight or as a general tonic. Long-term misuse can cause diabetes, weak bones, high blood pressure and dangerous adrenal problems.
- People with diabetes need closer sugar monitoring.
- Tell your doctor about tuberculosis, other infections, stomach ulcers or glaucoma.
- Avoid contact with chickenpox or measles if you have not had them, and tell your doctor if exposed.
Frequently asked questions about Dexamethasone
Can dexamethasone be used to gain weight?
No. Weight gain from steroids is a side effect, not a safe treatment. Misuse can cause serious long-term harm, so it should only be used when prescribed for a medical condition.
Dexamethasone brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 50+ products containing Dexamethasone from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
