Dexamethasone Intensol Coupons & Discount Card - Compare Prices Near You

This medication comes with several important safety warnings, which are essential for you to understand. Please read these carefully and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

• Adrenal Insufficiency: If you have been using corticosteroids like dexamethasone for an extended period, abruptly reducing or stopping the dosage can lead to adrenal insufficiency, making it difficult for your body to manage stress. Symptoms include joint or muscle pain, severe fatigue, and depression. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how to gradually reduce the dosage. Always consult your doctor before making any changes.

• Increased Infection Risk: Long-term use of dexamethasone can elevate your susceptibility to infections and may mask their symptoms. Avoid contact with individuals who have chickenpox or measles. If you have a history of tuberculosis (TB), your doctor will monitor you closely and may prescribe TB medications to prevent or treat reactivation.

• Cardiovascular and Renal Concerns: Dexamethasone may cause high blood pressure and affect your kidneys by increasing salt retention and potassium loss. If you have heart failure, hypertension, or kidney issues, consult your doctor, as this medication may exacerbate these conditions.

• Gastrointestinal Risks: The medication can harm the lining of your stomach and intestines, and alcohol can aggravate this irritation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience abdominal pain or notice bloody or dark stools. Those with a history of stomach bleeding, ulcers, or ulcerative colitis should exercise caution.

• Bone Health: Prolonged use of dexamethasone can weaken bones, potentially causing osteoporosis in adults and affecting growth in children. Your doctor may suggest dietary changes to increase calcium and vitamin D intake and recommend bone-strengthening exercises.

• Ophthalmic Issues: Long-term use may increase the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and certain eye infections. Avoid this medication if you have herpes simplex of the eye, and report any vision changes, such as blurriness or eye pain, to your doctor.

Contraindications:

• Do not use this medication if you have a systemic fungal infection, as it may pose severe health risks. Always consult with your healthcare provider if this condition applies to you.

When taking this medication, you might encounter some common side effects, which are usually mild. These include stomach upset, heartburn, headache, trouble sleeping, increased appetite, nausea, and mood swings. Some people may notice weight gain, higher blood sugar levels, or increased hunger. If these effects persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance.

There are also other side effects that, while not as common, have been reported. These include acne, dry or thinning skin, thinning scalp hair, rash, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, depression, vision changes, abnormal fat deposits, and fluid retention resulting in swollen ankles or feet. Additionally, slower wound healing and menstrual period changes might occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they become severe, you should contact your healthcare provider.

More serious side effects, although rare, require immediate medical attention. These include signs of infection (such as a persistent sore throat or fever), severe allergic reactions like trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, peeling skin, or hives. Other serious concerns are symptoms of stomach or intestinal bleeding, significant mental or mood changes, unusual weight gain, puffy face, eye pain or vision problems, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and red or purple spots on the skin.

It's important to be aware that this medication may rarely increase blood sugar levels, potentially aggravating existing diabetes or causing new onset diabetes. Symptoms to watch for include increased thirst and urination. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely and consult your healthcare provider for any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Always seek immediate medical help if you notice symptoms that could indicate severe side effects.

Certain medications can interact with this drug, affecting its efficacy or safety. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medications should not be used with this drug. These include artemether, Desmopressin, Praziquantel, rilpivirine, and live vaccines like rotavirus. Your doctor may advise against using these or adjust your treatment plan.

Other medications may be used with caution alongside this drug, requiring close monitoring or dosage adjustments. These include aldesleukin, dasatinib, lapatinib, sunitinib, Celecoxib, Ibuprofen, and many others like antiplatelet drugs and blood thinners such as Clopidogrel, Dabigatran, and Warfarin. These interactions could increase the risk of side effects or affect the way these drugs work.

If you are taking low-dose Aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (typically 81-162 mg daily), continue unless your doctor advises otherwise. Also, be aware that this medication might interfere with certain lab tests, potentially leading to false results. Ensure that all healthcare providers and laboratory personnel are aware of your medication use.