Dexamethasone phosphate

Dexamethasone Phosphate is a synthetic glucocorticoid used in the treatment of various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It is a prodrug of dexamethasone, which means it is metabolized into active dexamethasone in the body.

Pharmacology

Dexamethasone Phosphate is a prodrug of dexamethasone, which is a potent synthetic member of the glucocorticoid class of steroid drugs. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant. Its potency is about 20-30 times that of hydrocortisone.

Medical uses

Dexamethasone Phosphate is used to treat a variety of conditions, including rheumatic problems, a number of skin diseases, severe allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, croup, brain swelling, and along with antibiotics in tuberculosis. In adrenal insufficiency, it should be used together with a medication that has greater mineralocorticoid effects such as fludrocortisone.

Side effects

Potential side effects of Dexamethasone Phosphate include glucose intolerance, insomnia, depression, and adrenal suppression. Long-term use can lead to Cushing's syndrome, a condition characterized by an excess of cortisol in the blood.

See also

• Glucocorticoid
• Dexamethasone
• Prodrug
• Cushing's syndrome