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Decadron vs. Hydrocortisone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Dexamethasone (Hemady) and hydrocortisone (Cortef) are both corticosteroids used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Dexamethasone is a long-acting corticosteroid available in oral, intravenous (IV) injection, and liquid forms, while Cortef is a low-strength corticosteroid available only as an oral tablet. Dexamethasone is stronger than hydrocortisone and can treat a wider range of conditions, including multiple myeloma (Hemady brand only) and certain blood-related conditions. In contrast, hydrocortisone is less potent and might not be strong enough for severe conditions. Both medications can cause side effects like trouble sleeping, weight gain, and stomach issues, but dexamethasone has a higher risk of causing long-term problems with bones, skin, and eyes. Dexamethasone adn Cotef are both available in generic forms, making them more affordable. Both medications require careful tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms and should be taken with food to minimize stomach irritation.

Dexamethasone

 

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topical hydrocortisone

 

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Summary for Decadron

Prescription only

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that's used to treat many inflammatory conditions, including allergic reactions and certain autoimmune conditions. If you've been taking dexamethasone for a long time, you're at higher risk for side effects like weight gain and weakened bones. Dexamethasone also has many drug interactions, so make sure to tell your provider and pharmacist what medications you're taking before starting this steroid. This medication is available as oral tablets and solutions, as well as an injection that's usually given in a healthcare setting.

Indications for Decadron

Pros and Cons for Decadron

Pros

  • Can treat many conditions
  • Works quickly to relieve symptoms and problems caused by an overactive immune system, like swelling or rash
  • Option to take it by mouth
  • Available as a liquid for children or people who can't take tablets by mouth

Cons

Common Side Effects for Decadron

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Higher blood sugar levels
  • Headache
  • Mood swings
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Feeling more hungry
  • Weight gain

Warnings for Decadron

  • Lowered stress hormone levels
  • Higher risk of infections
  • High blood pressure and kidney-related problems
  • Stomach and intestinal problems
  • Weakened bones
  • Eye problems

Summary for Hydrocortisone

Prescription or over-the-counter

Topical hydrocortisone is a steroid medication used to treat different skin conditions, such as eczema. It's available in many different formulations, including cream, ointment, lotion, and solution. Some strengths are found over the counter (e.g., hydrocortisone 1%), while you need a prescription for others (e.g., hydrocortisone 2.5%). In general, most people experience few to no side effects while using topical hydrocortisone as directed. Rarely, topical hydrocortisone might cause topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). Watch out for skin rashes and irritations that get worse after stopping this medication.

Indications for Hydrocortisone

Short-term relief of skin irritations (e.g., itching) due to:

  • Skin inflammation
  • Skin rashes
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Insect bites
  • Poison ivy or oak
  • Skin allergies
  • Dry scalp
  • Genital or rectal irritation

Pros and Cons for Hydrocortisone

Pros

  • Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
  • Available over the counter
  • Many formulations to choose from, such as ointment, cream, and solution

Cons

  • Short-term use only, otherwise it might cause skin thinning and high blood sugar
  • Applied multiple times a day
  • Might affect your body's ability to fight off infections

Common Side Effects for Hydrocortisone

  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Skin irritation
  • Dry skin
  • Inflamed hair follicles

Warnings for Hydrocortisone

  • Hormone problems and withdrawal
  • High blood sugar
  • New or worsened skin infection
  • Skin problems

Prices with our coupons for Decadron vs. Hydrocortisone

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Dexamethasone5 tablets / 4mg
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Hydrocortisone1 tube / 30g of 2.5%
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