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Dexamethasone has a wide variety of uses in the medical field. As a treatment, dexamethasone has been useful in treating acute exacerbation of multiple sclerosis, allergies, cerebral edema, inflammation, and shock. Patients with COVID-19, asthma, atopic and contact dermatitis, and drug hypersensitivity reactions have benefited from dexamethasone. Clinicians use it as a diagnostic agent for Cushing disease. This activity will highlight the mechanism of action, adverse event profile, FDA-approved and off-label uses, administration, dosing, contraindications, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, monitoring parameters, and relevant interactions of dexamethasone pertinent for interprofessional team members using dexamethasone for any of its intended indications. Objectives: Outline the various indications of dexamethasone. Summarize the mechanism of action of dexamethasone. Describe the contraindications of dexamethasone. Review the importance of improving care coordination among interprofessional team members to improve outcomes for patients where dexamethasone can play a role in diagnosis or treatment. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

According to the manufacturer’s labeling information, the oral LD50 of dexamethasone in female mice is 6.5 g/kg. The intravenous formulation of dexamethasone has an LD50 of 794 mg/kg in female mice. In the case of overdosage, no specific antidote is available. Therefore, treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

Dexamethasone is widely prescribed by all clinicians (MD, DO, NP, and PA). However, it is essential to know that this potent steroid has many adverse effects and requires critical patient monitoring. In general, clinicians should avoid long-term prescriptions, and the drug is tapered quickly if the patient is improving. If chronic use is warranted, the clinician must educate the patient about the potential side effects of the steroid. Pharmacists should assist with medication reconciliation, explain the potential risks associated with long-term steroid therapy, and report any concerns to clinicians. In addition, nurses must monitor the patient for mood changes, development of osteoporosis, weight gain, hyperglycemia, electrolyte changes, and depression. Open communication among all healthcare team members will enhance patient outcomes and improve patient safety using dexamethasone. [Level 5]