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Compare Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

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

Key takeaways

Dexamethasone (Hemady) and prednisone (Rayos, Prednisone Intensol) are both corticosteroids used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Dexamethasone is available in oral, intravenous (IV) injection, and liquid forms, while prednisone is only available in oral forms, including tablets and liquid. Dexamethasone is a long-acting corticosteroid, meaning its effects last longer in your body compared to prednisone. Prednisone, on the other hand, is a prodrug that needs to be converted into its active form in the liver. Dexamethasone is stronger than prednisone; for example, 0.75 mg of dexamethasone is equivalent to 5 mg of prednisone. Both medications can cause side effects like weight gain, mood changes, and trouble sleeping, but dexamethasone has a higher risk of causing weakened bones and infections with long-term use. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine which medication is best for your condition.

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  • Dexamethasone
    Prednisone
  • Dexamethasone
    Prednisone

  • Summary of Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    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.

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth by adults and children to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as allergies and certain skin conditions. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some of the common short-term side effects of prednisone include stomach irritation and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a month or longer, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system.

  • Indications of Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

    Indications for
    •Allergies and allergic reactions
    •Skin conditions
    •Hormone-related conditions
    •Eye conditions
    •Stomach conditions
    •Respiratory disorders
    •Autoimmune and rheumatic conditions
    •Multiple myeloma (Hemady brand only), blood cancers, and other blood-related conditions
    •Certain eye conditions
    •Nervous system and brain conditions
    •Kidney diseases
    •Shock
    Indications for

    This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:

    •Allergies or allergic reactions
    •Skin conditions
    •Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)
    •Eye conditions
    •Lung conditions
    •Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)
    •Conditions related to blood cells
    •Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia
    •Nervous system conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
    •Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
    •Lupus

  • Pros and Cons of Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    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
    •Can cause trouble sleeping and headaches
    •Long-term use can cause problems with skin, bone, eye health and put you at a higher risk for infections
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking too suddenly
    •Safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding isn't clear
    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
    •Available as a liquid, which is a good option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Dose can be adjusted based on your response to the medication
    Cons
    •Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems
    •Need to taper your dose before stopping (if you took it for more than a couple of weeks)
    •Might raise your risk for infections, bone weakening, and skin problems if used long term
    •Can slow growth in children if they take it for a long period of time

  • Common Side Effects of Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Difficulty sleeping
    •Higher blood sugar levels
    •Headache
    •Mood swings
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Feeling more hungry
    •Weight gain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)
    •Stomach bloating
    •Muscle weakness
    •Headache
    •Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
    •Changes in your mood
    •Larger appetite (possibly leading to weight gain)
    •Higher blood sugar

  • Warnings of Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Lowered stress hormone levels
    •Higher risk of infections
    •High blood pressure and kidney-related problems
    •Stomach and intestinal problems
    •Weakened bones
    •Eye problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Greater risk of infections
    •Mood and behavior changes
    •Reduced adrenal gland function
    •Changes in heart and kidney function
    •Stomach problems
    •Bone problems with long-term use
    •Eye problems with long-term use

  • Prices with our coupons for Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

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    Learn more about Prednisone

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