Dexamethasone has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these mild reactions do not go away within a few days.
Common side effects reported from dexamethasone use include:
- Stomach irritation/ upset stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Nervousness/ restlessness
- Acne
- Increased hunger
- Increased blood sugar
- High blood pressure
More serious adverse reactions include:
- Swelling in the face, ankles, or legs
- Skin rash/ hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Noisy breathing/ wheezing
- Weight gain
- Muscle weakness
- Osteoporosis
- Black or tarry stools
- Infections
- Cataracts
This is not a complete list of adverse reactions caused by dexamethasone. If you notice any symptoms of a severe adverse reaction, seek medical attention immediately. These are signs of a potentially life-threatening response to dexamethasone and require treatment from a health care provider.
As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medications or supplements you are currently taking. Specifically, tell your provider if you are taking anticoagulants, arthritis medications, NSAIDs, hormone medications, diuretics, or oral contraceptives. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Dexamethasone can interact with other forms of medication, causing potentially serious side effects.