Dexamethasone

Generic Name of Dexamethasone: Dexamethasone

Indications for Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone for dogs and cats is an anti-inflammatory steroid for the management of certain inflammatory diseases in animals. The medication is a corticosteroid, an active remedy for treating Addison’s disease, autoimmune conditions, inflammation related to arthritis, and even allergies and cancers in dogs and cats. It is also used for kidney related diseases as well as in conditions such as brain swelling. The active ingredient in the drug is dexamethasone, which is a hormone that supplements the immune and inflammatory systems in the animal. Dexamethasone is a prescription drug and can be obtained as injection or scored unflavored tablets.

Precautions when using Dexamethasone

As is true for any other medication, dexamethasone should not be used in animals that are hypersensitive to the drug. Care must be taken when using the medicine in animals that are already suffering from certain inner-organ complaints, diabetes, or such other disorders. Also, use with caution when given with other medications, since dexamethasone is reported to cause reactions when in certain combinations. Given in overdose, the animal will suffer from Cushingoid symptoms, extreme hunger, thirst, and abnormality in urination. Moreover when prescribed for long term therapy, it would be unhealthy for the animal if the medication is stopped abruptly. This might lead to Addison’s disease with symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, etc.

Side Effects of Dexamethasone

The medication can bring about adverse reactions in some animals, like loss of appetite, increased thirst, abnormal urination, lethargy, etc. However, the possibility of side effects can be reduced by consulting a veterinarian and modifying the dose and its frequency.

Dosage for Dexamethasone

As dexamethasone is applicable in treating a variety of conditions, the disease, its severity, and the response to the medication are the factors that are to be considered while deciding the dosage. Consult your veterinarian about the dosage to be administered for the condition that is being treated.

Brand Names of Dexamethasone

Decadron (Merck), Azium (Schering Plough)