Dexamethasone

Steroid (oral or injection)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Dexamethasone is a steroid (oral or injection) found in 4 medicines sold in India, such as Dexona, Dexona Injection, Ciplox-D. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Strongly reduces inflammation and allergic reactions.

How it works

A long-acting, very strong steroid for severe allergy, swelling, croup, nausea in chemotherapy and some serious infections.

How to take it

Take with food in the morning, as prescribed; do not stop long courses suddenly.

Common side effects

  • Raised sugar
  • Mood changes
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Increased appetite

Get medical help straight away if

  • Signs of infection
  • Black stools
  • Very high sugar
  • Confusion

Be careful

Raises blood sugar; use only as prescribed and do not stop suddenly after long use.

Other medicines and interactions

Same cautions as other steroids: NSAIDs, diabetes, live vaccines, enzyme-inducing medicines.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Used in pregnancy for specific reasons (such as before early birth); otherwise ask your doctor.

Brands of Dexamethasone (2)

DexonaDexona Injection

Combination medicines that contain Dexamethasone (2)

Ciplox-DPyrimon

Common questions

What is Dexamethasone used for?

Strongly reduces inflammation and allergic reactions.

How does Dexamethasone work?

A long-acting, very strong steroid for severe allergy, swelling, croup, nausea in chemotherapy and some serious infections.

How should I take Dexamethasone?

Take with food in the morning, as prescribed; do not stop long courses suddenly.

What are the side effects of Dexamethasone?

Common: Raised sugar, mood changes, trouble sleeping, increased appetite. Get help straight away for: Signs of infection, black stools, very high sugar, confusion.

Does Dexamethasone interact with other medicines?

Same cautions as other steroids: NSAIDs, diabetes, live vaccines, enzyme-inducing medicines.

Is Dexamethasone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Used in pregnancy for specific reasons (such as before early birth); otherwise ask your doctor.

Does Dexamethasone need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Dexamethasone?

Ciplox-D, Dexona, Dexona Injection, Pyrimon.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.