Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiallergic effects.

How to Use Dexamethasone

Administration Regimen

The recommended dose of dexamethasone is 20 mg or 40 mg, taken orally once daily. The specific number of administration days depends on the treatment regimen of the anti-myeloma product used in combination.

Dexamethasone can be taken with food or on an empty stomach.

Dosage Form and Specifications

Dexamethasone is available as 20 mg white, round, biconvex tablets, with "20" engraved on one side.

Each bottle is packaged in two specifications: 24 tablets per bottle or 100 tablets per bottle.

Precautions for Combined Medication

Dexamethasone must be used in combination with other anti-myeloma products. For the specific administration regimen, refer to the prescribing information of the co-administered anti-myeloma product.

During treatment, medical advice must be strictly followed. Abrupt discontinuation of the drug is not allowed; the dose must be gradually reduced to avoid adrenal insufficiency.

Dosage Adjustment of Dexamethasone

Dosage Adjustment for Elderly Patients

It is recommended to reduce the dose of dexamethasone in elderly patients, as this population has an increased risk of toxic reactions.

For specific dosage adjustments, refer to the administration recommendations of the co-administered anti-myeloma product for elderly patients.

Adjustments Related to Drug Interactions

Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., itraconazole) may increase dexamethasone exposure, requiring close monitoring for adverse reactions.

Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin) may decrease dexamethasone exposure, and an increase in the HEMADY® dose may be necessary.

Administration of Dexamethasone in Special Populations

Elderly Patients

The incidence of adverse reactions to dexamethasone may be increased in elderly patients, especially osteoporosis.

Regular bone mineral density assessments should be performed, and fracture prevention strategies should be implemented. Elderly patients usually require dosage adjustment.

Patients with Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild hepatic impairment.

Patients with moderate hepatic impairment need close monitoring for adverse reactions.

The recommended dose for patients with severe hepatic impairment has not been established.

Patients with Renal Impairment

No dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, but the risk of infection may be increased, requiring close monitoring.

Data on patients with severe renal impairment are not yet clear.

Pregnant Women

Dexamethasone can cross the placenta and may cause fetal developmental abnormalities, including orofacial clefts, intrauterine growth restriction, and low birth weight.

It should be used only when the potential benefit outweighs the risk.

Women who use dexamethasone during pregnancy should be informed of the potential risks to the fetus.

Lactating Women

Systemically administered dexamethasone passes into breast milk and may inhibit infant growth or interfere with the production of endogenous corticosteroids.

It is recommended not to breastfeed during treatment and within 2 weeks after the last dose.