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Dexamethasone vs. Prednisone

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.

• 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

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

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

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.

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

• 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

• 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