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The following safety information outlines the potential risks and precautions associated with the use of this medication. Please review this information thoroughly, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

• Adrenal Insufficiency Risk: Abruptly reducing or discontinuing corticosteroids like dexamethasone, especially after long-term use, can lead to insufficient stress hormone levels. This condition, known as adrenal insufficiency, may result in symptoms such as joint or muscle pain, extreme fatigue, and depression. It is crucial to follow a gradual reduction plan devised by your healthcare provider. Always discuss with your doctor before making any changes to your dosage, particularly if undergoing stress due to trauma, surgery, or infection.

• Increased Infection Risk: Extended use of dexamethasone may elevate the risk of infections and obscure their symptoms. Avoid contact with individuals who have contagious diseases like chickenpox or measles. If you have a history of tuberculosis (TB), your doctor may need to monitor you closely and possibly prescribe preventative or therapeutic TB medications. This risk is heightened if you are on other immunosuppressants, have not been vaccinated against viral diseases, or have a history of bacterial or viral infections.

• Cardiovascular and Renal Concerns: Dexamethasone can lead to high blood pressure and cause fluid retention while increasing potassium loss through the kidneys. Patients with heart failure, hypertension, or kidney damage should exercise caution, as these conditions might worsen. This risk is particularly relevant if you have recently experienced a heart attack.

• Gastrointestinal Issues: This medication can damage the stomach and intestinal lining, raising the risk of bleeding or ulceration. Alcohol consumption can exacerbate these effects, so it is advisable to avoid it. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience stomach pain or notice bloody or dark stools. The risk is higher if you have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or ulcerative colitis, or if taken in combination with other medications that can irritate the stomach.

• Bone Health: Long-term use of dexamethasone can lead to weakened bones or osteoporosis in adults and may impede growth in children. Consult your doctor on ways to strengthen your bones, which may include consuming calcium and vitamin D-rich foods, such as leafy greens, milk, and eggs, and engaging in bone-strengthening exercises like walking or resistance training.

• Ocular Risks: Prolonged dexamethasone use increases the likelihood of developing cataracts or glaucoma and may heighten susceptibility to certain eye infections. Avoid using this medication if you have herpes simplex of the eye. Report any vision changes, such as blurriness or eye pain, to your healthcare provider promptly.

• Contraindications: This medication should not be used if you have a systemic fungal infection, as it poses serious health risks. Ensure to discuss with your healthcare provider if this condition applies to you before starting treatment.

When using this medication, some common side effects that may occur include difficulty sleeping, headaches, nausea, stomach pain, increased appetite, weight gain, and mood swings. These effects are generally mild, but if they persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. Other side effects that may occur include acne, dry or thinning skin, thinning hair on the scalp, rashes, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, depression, vision changes, abnormal fat deposits, swelling in the feet and ankles, and slower wound healing. While these effects are less common, they should be monitored.

There are also rare but serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include symptoms of an allergic reaction such as trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat, peeling skin, rash, and hives. Additionally, if you notice signs of infection such as a persistent sore throat or fever, experience unusual weight gain, puffy face, irregular heartbeat, eye pain, or any symptoms of stomach or intestinal bleeding like black stools or vomit resembling coffee grounds, seek urgent medical care. It is also crucial to monitor blood sugar levels as this medication can raise them, potentially worsening diabetes.

Though these side effects are not exhaustive, being aware of them can help ensure timely intervention if needed. Always keep your healthcare provider informed about any side effects that you experience.

Dexamethasone can interact with various medications and supplements. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you're taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some drugs should not be used with Dexamethasone. These include artemether, Desmopressin, Praziquantel, rilpivirine, and live rotavirus vaccines, as they may require your doctor to reconsider your treatment.

There are also medications that are usually not recommended to be combined with Dexamethasone, but may be necessary in certain situations. If prescribed together, your doctor might adjust the dosage or frequency. These include aldesleukin, Celecoxib, Ibuprofen, lapatinib, sunitinib, and many others.

Furthermore, combining Dexamethasone with certain drugs, such as Aspirin, Warfarin, and fluindione, might increase the risk of side effects. In such cases, your doctor may modify your treatment plan to optimize safety and effectiveness.

Additionally, Dexamethasone can expedite the elimination of other drugs from your system, potentially altering their effectiveness. This includes some cancer medications like dasatinib and sunitinib. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific guidance regarding your medication regimen.

Lastly, Dexamethasone might interfere with some laboratory tests, leading to inaccurate results. Ensure that all healthcare professionals involved in your care are aware that you are using this medication.