How do you take Dexamethasone phosphate (Dexamethasone sodium phosphate)?

For tablets, the usual adult dose is 0.5 mg to 4 mg daily depending on your condition, taken with food to protect your stomach. Your doctor will decide the exact dose and how long you should take it. Do not stop taking it suddenly — your doctor will gradually reduce your dose when it is time to stop.

What are the side effects of Dexamethasone phosphate (Dexamethasone sodium phosphate)?

Increased appetite and weight gain, trouble sleeping, mood changes or feeling restless, stomach upset or heartburn, swelling of the face or body with long-term use

Who should not take Dexamethasone phosphate (Dexamethasone sodium phosphate)?

People allergic to dexamethasone or other steroids, those with active fungal infections, people with untreated serious infections (like TB or active malaria without antimalarials), individuals with stomach ulcers, and people who recently received a live vaccine. Use with extreme caution if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or glaucoma.

Prescription

Corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory steroid)

Dexamethasone phosphate

Q: What is Dexamethasone phosphate (Dexamethasone sodium phosphate) used for?

Severe allergic reactions, asthma attacks, serious skin rashes, eye inflammation, joint pain and swelling (arthritis), severe body swelling, croup in children, cerebral malaria complications, meningitis support treatment, and other conditions where strong anti-inflammatory action is needed

Last reviewed June 2026

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Dexamethasone sodium phosphate is a strong steroid (corticosteroid) medicine that works by reducing swelling, inflammation, and overactive immune responses in the body.

What is it used for?

Severe allergic reactionsasthma attacksserious skin rasheseye inflammationjoint pain and swelling (arthritis)severe body swellingcroup in childrencerebral malaria complicationsmeningitis support treatmentand other conditions where strong anti-inflammatory action is needed

Browse by condition

Malaria Asthma & Breathing Allergies Arthritis & Joint Pain Glaucoma & Eye Pressure Eczema & Skin Rashes Meningitis Throat & Chest Infections Kidney & Urinary Sepsis & Severe Infections Nausea & Vomiting Cancer Treatment Rheumatoid Arthritis Anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs)

How it works

Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, translocates to the nucleus, and suppresses pro-inflammatory gene transcription (including cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules), thereby reducing inflammation, immune cell infiltration, and vascular permeability across multiple organ systems.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Do not buy dexamethasone from roadside vendors or use it without a doctor's prescription — steroid misuse is common in Nigeria and can cause very serious harm including weakened bones and damaged immune system. Never use it as a 'fattening' or appetite-boosting drug, which is a dangerous practice. Always complete your prescribed course and follow your doctor's tapering instructions when stopping.

Common Side Effects

Increased appetite and weight gain
trouble sleeping
mood changes or feeling restless
stomach upset or heartburn
swelling of the face or body with long-term use

Serious Side Effects

High blood sugar (excessive thirst
frequent urination — especially dangerous if you have diabetes)
severe stomach pain or blood in your stool (could be a stomach ulcer)
signs of serious infection like high fever or persistent illness (this drug can hide infections).

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking with NSAIDs like ibuprofen or diclofenac as the combination increases risk of stomach ulcers. If you are taking diabetes medicines (like metformin or glibenclamide), dexamethasone can raise your blood sugar and your doctor may need to adjust your dose. Alcohol should be avoided as it increases the risk of stomach problems.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Dexamethasone is not safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically prescribes it for a serious condition — always consult your doctor first.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to dexamethasone or other steroids
those with active fungal infections
people with untreated serious infections (like TB or active malaria without antimalarials)
individuals with stomach ulcers
and people who recently received a live vaccine. Use with extreme caution if you have diabetes
high blood pressure
or glaucoma.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Keep injections and eye drops in a refrigerator if the label says so. Always keep out of the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.