Dexamethasone

Question 1

Presentation of dexamethasone

Answer 1

2mg in 5ml oral solution
2mg as soluble tablets

Question 2

Indication of dexamethasone

Answer 2

Croup

Question 3

Actions of dexamethasone

Answer 3

Corticosteroid - reduces subglottic inflammation

Question 4

Contraindication of dexamethasone

Answer 4

Impending respiratory failure

Question 5

Side Effects of dexamethasone

Answer 5

GI upset
Hypersensitivity/anaphylactic reaction

Question 6

Dosages for dexamethasone oral solution

Answer 6

Calculated on average weight 0.15mg/kg
11: 5.2mg in 13ml
10: 4.8mg in 12ml
8-9: 4mg in 10ml
7: 3.6mg in 9ml
6: 3.2mg in 7ml
5: 2.8mg in 7ml
4: 2.4mg in 6ml
3: 2mg in 5ml
2: 1.8mg in 4.5ml
12-18 months: 1.6mg in 4ml
9 months: 1.4mg in 3.5ml
6 months: 1.2mg in 3ml
3 months: 1mg in 2.5ml
1 month: 0.7mg in 1.7ml

Question 7

Dosages for dexamethasone oral tablet

Answer 7

10-11: 6mg (3 tablets)
5-9: 4mg (2 tablets)
1 month-5: 2mg (1 tablet)