Dexamethasone

Question 1

What is the presentation of Dexamethasone?

Answer 1

8mg in 2mL glass vial

Question 2

What is the pharmacology of Dexamethasone?

List the actions.

Answer 2

A corticosteroid secreted by the adrenal cortex.
Actions:
1. Relieves inflammatory reactions
2. Provides immunosuppression

Question 3

How is Dexamethasone metabolised and excreted?

Answer 3

Metabolised by the liver and other tissues.

Excreted predominantly by the kidneys.

Question 4

List the PEI’s for Dexamethasone.

Answer 4

1. Bronchospasm associated with acute respiratory distress not responsive to nebulised Salbutamol
2. Moderate to severe croup
3. Acute exacerbations of COPD

Question 5

List the contraindication to Dexamethasone.

Answer 5

1. Known hypersensitivity.

Question 6

List the precaution for Dexamethasone.

Answer 6

1. Solutions that are not clear or are contaminated should be discarded.

Question 7

What is the route of administration for Dexamethasone?

Answer 7

IV - over 1 to 3 minutes

Oral

Question 8

What is the special note for Dexamethasone?

Answer 8

Does not contain any antimicrobial agent, therefore use solution immediately and discard any residue.

Question 9

What is the onset, peak and duration for IV Dexamethasone?

*Oral O/P/D not listed.

Answer 9

O: 30-60mins
P: 2hrs
D: 36-72hrs