Dexamethasone

• Dexamethasone is available by prescription only.

• Dexamethasone is used to control inflammation and suppress the immune system.

• Dexamethasone is a potent glucocorticoid, a hormone that is related to cortisone.

• Dexamethasone is used to treat...

• inflammation

• autoimmune diseases

• shock related to infection

• rheumatoid arthritis

• respiratory diseases

• liver disorders

• intestinal diseases

• skin disorders

• nervous system abnormalities

• immune mediated diseases

• cancer

• Dexamethasone works by inhibiting inflammation, which reduces irritation, redness, burning, and swelling.

• Dexamethasone tablets are available in two sizes...

• 0.5 mg

• 1.5 mg

• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

• Do not use in animals with known hypersensitivity to dexamethasone.

• Do not use with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or Rimadyl.

• Let your veterinarian know if your pet is on any other medications, as dexamethasone can react with other medications, including...

• furosemide

• insulin

• phenobarbital

• NSAIDs

• cyclosporine (Atopica)

• deracoxib (Deramaxx)

• vaccines

• Dexamethasone may cause liver damage.

• Do not use in pets suffering from...

• bacterial infections

• fungal infections

• infectious diseases

• viral infections.

• Stomach ulcers may develop during dexamethasone treatment.

• Let your veterinarian know if your pet is on any other steroid medications, such as...

• prednisone

• prednisolone

• methylprednisolone

---

• Give as directed by your veterinarian.

• Follow the instructions printed on the prescription label.

• Store at room temperature.

• Complete the prescription to ensure a full recovery, even if your pet seems to be improving, unless instructed otherwise by your veterinarian.

• Allow your pet access to plenty of water.

• Give with food.

• Do not stop dexamethasone treatment suddenly. Gradually reduce dosage before stopping treatment.

• In the case of a missed dose of dexamethasone, give it as soon as you remember, or wait until it is time to give the next dose. DO NOT GIVE A DOUBLE DOSE OF DEXAMETHASONE.

• In the case of an overdose of dexamethasone, seek attention from your veterinarian.

• The following symptoms could be signs of an overdose...

• vomiting

• diarrhea

• Cushing's disease

• Allergic reactions and serious side effects are rare, but in the case of an allergic reaction or a serious side effect, seek immediate veterinary attention.

• Some common signs of allergic reaction and serious side effects are...

• hair loss

• weakening of the muscles

• liver impairment

• behavioral changes

• stomach or intestinal ulcers

• bloody diarrhea