provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Dexamethasone Coupon - Dexamethasone 4mg tablet

dexamethasone

Generic Decadron
Used for Eczema, Psoriasis, Ulcerative Colitis, Eye Inflammation, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Asthma, Leukemia, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Edema, Gout, Anaphylaxis, Multiple Sclerosis, Tuberculosis, Lupus, Chronic ITP
Used for Eczema, Psoriasis, Ulcerative Colitis, Eye Inflammation, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Asthma, Leukemia, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Edema, Gout, Anaphylaxis, Multiple Sclerosis, Tuberculosis, Lupus, Chronic ITP

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.

Last reviewed on August 14, 2023
basics-icon

What is Dexamethasone?

What is Dexamethasone used for?

How Dexamethasone works

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that's similar to a hormone that your body naturally makes, called cortisol. It lowers swelling (inflammation) and other immune responses that can cause you pain, discomfort, or harm.

Dexamethasone is a long-acting corticosteroid, meaning its effects can linger around longer than other similar medications.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsTaperdex, Hemady
Drug ClassCorticosteroid
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$19.28(save 85.75%)
GoodRx discount
$2.75
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Dexamethasone?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

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

Other Side Effects

  • Acne
  • Dry and/or thinning skin
  • Thinning scalp hair
  • Rash
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Muscle weakness
  • Depression
  • Vision changes
  • Abnormal fat deposits
  • Swelling in feet and ankles (fluid retention)
  • Slower wound healing

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reaction: trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling (on your face, lips, mouth, or throat), peeling skin, rash, hives
When do Dexamethasone possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Higher blood sugar levels
Agitation and irritability
Trouble sleeping
Stomach pain
Weight gain
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Aggression

agitation

anxiety

blurred vision

decrease in the amount of urine

dizziness

fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

headache

irritability

mental depression

mood changes

nervousness

noisy, rattling breathing

numbness or tingling in the arms or legs

pounding in the ears

swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs

trouble thinking, speaking, or walking

troubled breathing at rest

weight gain

Incidence not known

Abdominal or stomach cramping and/or burning (severe) or pain

backache

bloody, black, or tarry stools

cough or hoarseness

darkening of the skin

decrease in height

decreased vision

diarrhea

dry mouth

eye pain

eye tearing

facial hair growth in females

fainting

fatigue

fever or chills

flushed, dry skin

fractures

fruit-like breath odor

full or round face, neck, or trunk

heartburn and/or indigestion (severe and continuous)

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

loss of appetite

loss of sexual desire or ability

lower back or side pain

menstrual irregularities

muscle pain or tenderness

muscle wasting or weakness

nausea

pain in the back, ribs, arms, or legs

painful or difficult urination

skin rash

sleeplessness

sweating

trouble healing

trouble sleeping

unexplained weight loss

unusual tiredness or weakness

vision changes

vomiting

vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Increased appetite

Incidence not known

Abnormal fat deposits on the face, neck, and trunk

acne

dry scalp

lightening of normal skin color

red face

reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin

swelling of the stomach area

thinning of the scalp hair

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Dexamethasone

thumbs-up

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

thumbs-down

Cons

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

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Dexamethasone

pharmacist
  • Dexamethasone can cause you to feel anxious or have a harder time falling asleep. You will want to take it earlier in the day, if possible, so you don't have trouble sleeping at night.

    • If you're taking the oral solution or elixir, use the measuring device comes with the medication to measure out your doses. Don't use kitchen or measuring spoons, since these may not be accurate.

      • If you are prescribed a dose pack of dexamethasone, such as TaperDex 6-Day, follow the directions on the package to take your doses correctly. These dose packs contain a specific number of tablets that lasts for a specific number of days to help treat your condition. The packs also help you to lower your dose slowly until you stop the medication completely so as to prevent any side effects from stopping dexamethasone too quickly.

        • Dexamethasone can weaken your immune system so avoid getting any "live" vaccines (e.g. chickenpox or shingles vaccine) while taking this medication since the vaccine may not work as well.

          • When you take dexamethasone for a long time, your body lowers the amount of stress hormone that it produces, so you shouldn't suddenly stop taking your medication or lower your dose without talking to your doctor. If you do, you may get withdrawal symptoms including weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Dexamethasone

            Is dexamethasone a steroid?
            Yes, dexamethasone is a corticosteroid. It works to lessen swelling (inflammation) and other immune responses that can cause you pain, discomfort, or harm.
            How long do side effects of dexamethasone last?
            How long side effects of dexamethasone last depend on what side effects you're experiencing, how long you've been taking dexamethasone, and at what dose. Your provider might be able to help you manage some of the more common side effects of dexamethasone, such as trouble sleeping and headache, with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. But it can take you longer to recover from some of the more long-term side effects of dexamethasone, even after your provider has helped you taper off of this medication. If you have a question about any particular side effect, ask your provider.
            Is 6 mg of dexamethasone a high dose?
            According to the Journal of the Endocrine Society, prednisone 20 mg is considered high or "stress" dose. Based on calculations, dexamethasone 6 mg is equal to prednisone 40 mg - meaning it is also considered a high corticosteroid dose. Don't suddenly stop taking dexamethasone, especially if you've been taking this dose for a long time, without talking with your provider first. Doing so can raise your risk of withdrawal symptoms, including body aches and tiredness.
            Is dexamethasone stronger than prednisone?
            Dexamethasone is considered a strong corticosteroid. When you're comparing milligrams to milligrams, dexamethasone is more than 6 times stronger than prednisone. For examples, dexamethasone 0.75 mg is the same potency (strength) as prednisone 5 mg. Your provider will help determine which steroid is best for you.
            How long does dexamethasone stay in your system?
            It can take anywhere from about 8 to 16 days for most of dexamethasone to leave your system after you've stopped taking this medication. This estimate is based on the medication's half-life, which is the amount of time it takes for half of the medication to leave your system. A medication is considered to be cleared from the body after about five half-lives.
            How long does dexamethasone take to work?
            The timing of when dexamethasone starts to work can differ depending on what condition you're taking it for. In general, dexamethasone reaches its "peak" concentration in the body within an hour. But this might not be the same as how long it takes for you to feel a physical improvement in your condition. For example, a study of the use of dexamethasone to help with croup in children showed that children can experience relief of their symptoms in about 30 minutes. Let your provider know if you've questions about how fast dexamethasone works.
            Can you gain weight while taking dexamethasone?
            You might gain weight while taking dexamethasone since it can raise your appetite, and also affect how your body breaks down food and how your body stores fat. If you're only taking dexamethasone for a short time, you're less likely to experience any weight changes. But you're more likely to experience this side effect if you're taking a higher dose of dexamethasone or taking dexamethasone for a longer period of time (30 days or longer).
            Can you drink alcohol while taking dexamethasone?
            Dexamethasone can cause some stomach irritation so it is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
            GoodRxEducationalIcon

            How to save using GoodRx

            Compare Prices
            1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
            Select your free coupon
            2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
            Show coupon to your pharmacist
            3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
            Get free couponLearn more
            warings-icon

            What are the risks and warnings for Dexamethasone?

            Dexamethasone can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Lowered stress hormone levels

            • Risk factors: Lowering dose or stopping dexamethasone too quickly especially after long-term treatment | Stress such as trauma, surgery or infection

              If you've been taking corticosteroids like dexamethasone for a long time, lowering your dose or stopping it too quickly can be dangerous since your body can't respond to stress (adrenal insufficiency). Symptoms low stress hormone levels include joint or muscle pain, extreme low energy and depression. If your provider wants to lower your dose of dexamethasone, they'll work with you to do it slowly over time. Talk to your doctor before you make any changes or stop it.

              risk-warning

              Higher risk of infections

              • Risk factors: Taking other immunosuppressants | Long-term treatment | Not vaccinated against viral diseases | Contact with people who have viral illness | History of bacterial or viral conditions

                If you take dexamethasone for a long time it can raise your risk of infections and hide some signs of infection. Be especially careful not to be in contact with anyone who has the chickenpox or measles. If you had tuberculosis (TB) in the past your doctor will need to monitor you while taking dexamethasone. You might need to take TB medications to prevent getting it or treat it if your TB comes back.

                Also, talk to your doctor before getting any vaccinations. Depending on your dose of dexamethasone and how long you've been taking this medication, you might not be able to receive live vaccines since there's a higher chance you'll get sick from them. Also, your provider might ask you to wait to receive inactivated vaccines because these types of vaccines might not work as well to protect you from future infections.

                risk-warning

                High blood pressure and kidney-related problems

                • Risk factors: Recent heart attack

                  Dexamethasone can cause high blood pressure. It can also cause your body to hold on to more salt and your kidneys to lose more potassium. Talk to your doctor if you have heart failure, high blood pressure, or kidney damage because taking dexamethasone might worsen these conditions.

                  risk-warning

                  Stomach and intestinal problems

                  • Risk factors: Drinking alcohol | History of stomach bleeding | Active or history of stomach ulcers | Ulcerative colitis | Taking dexamethasone with other medications that can cause stomach problems

                    Taking dexamethasone raise the risk of damage to the lining of your stomach and intestine. You should avoid alcoholic beverages because they can worsen stomach irritation. Tell your doctor and get medical care right away if you have stomach pain or bloody/dark stools when you go to the bathroom.

                    risk-warning

                    Weakened bones

                    • Risk factors: High dose of dexamethasone | Long duration of treatment

                      If you take dexamethasone for a long time, this medication can weaken your bones. This can lead to osteoporosis in adults and slower growth rate in children. Ask your doctor for recommendations for how to prevent further weakening of bones. They might ask you to eat foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as leafy greens, milk, and eggs. They might also recommend you do bone-strengthening exercises, such as walking, climbing stairs, or using resistance bands.

                      risk-warning

                      Eye problems

                      Long-term use of dexamethasone leads to a higher risk of cataracts or glaucoma. You may also be more at risk for certain eye infections. Don't take dexamethasone if you have herpes simplex of the eye. Let your doctor know if you have blurry vision, eye pain or any vision changes while taking this medication.

                      dosage

                      Dexamethasone dosage forms

                      The average cost for 10 tablets of 4mg of Dexamethasone is $6.30 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 67.32% off the average retail price of $19.28.
                      dose pack
                      Dose pack
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      6 days of 1.5mg1 dose pack$36.91$36.91
                      10 days of 1.5mg1 dose pack$97.23$97.23
                      13 days of 1.5mg1 dose pack$137.56$137.56
                      ml of elixir
                      Ml of elixir
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      0.5mg/5ml237 ml$15.69$0.07
                      eye dropper
                      Eye dropper
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      5ml of 0.1%1 eye dropper$27.99$27.99
                      ml of oral solution
                      Ml of oral solution
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      0.5mg/5ml500 ml$16.25$0.03
                      tablet
                      Tablet
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      0.5mg30 tablets$3.91$0.13
                      0.75mg10 tablets$3.00$0.30
                      1mg1 tablet$2.75$2.75
                      1.5mg10 tablets$4.29$0.43
                      2mg10 tablets$7.44$0.74
                      4mg10 tablets$6.30$0.63
                      6mg5 tablets$7.56$1.51

                      Typical dosing for Dexamethasone

                      • Adults (oral): The typical starting dose ranges from 0.75 mg to 9 mg by mouth daily, depending on your medical condition.

                      • Children (oral): Your child's provider will determine their dose based on their body weight. The typical starting dose ranges from 0.02 mg/kg to 0.3 mg/kg by mouth a day in 3 or 4 divided doses, depending on your child's medical condition.

                      Dexamethasone is also available as an oral solution or elixir for those who have trouble swallowing pills, and as an intravenous (IV) injection given by a healthcare provider for those requiring emergency care.

                      interactions

                      Interactions between Dexamethasone and other drugs

                      Dexamethasone may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Dexamethasone. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      drug-cost

                      How much does Dexamethasone cost?

                      To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                      contraindications-icon

                      Dexamethasone contraindications

                      Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Dexamethasone will not be safe for you to take.
                      • Fungal infection that has spread throughout the body

                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Dexamethasone?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Dexamethasone. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Dexamethasone
                      Used for:
                      $2.75 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Used for:
                      $2.40 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Used for:
                      $10.19 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      latest news

                      What is the latest news about Dexamethasone?

                      images

                      Dexamethasone images

                      Green Round 54 892 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      This medicine is Green, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "54 892".Green Round 54 892 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      White Par 087 And F 087 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Par 087" And "F 087".White Par 087 And F 087 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      White Round E3 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "E3".White Round E3 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      Yellow Round S2 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      This medicine is Yellow, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "S2".Yellow Round S2 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      Green Round 1736 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      This medicine is Green, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "1736".Green Round 1736 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      Green Round N 403 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet
                      This medicine is Green, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "N 403".Green Round N 403 - Dexamethasone 4mg Tablet

                      Get savings updates for Dexamethasone

                      Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Dexamethasone and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                      By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                      References

                      Best studies we found

                      Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Spoons are for soup, milliliters are for medicine.

                      Chartwell RX, LLC. (2023). Dexamethasone elixir [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Chen Cardenas, S. M., et al. (2023). Perioperative evaluation and management of patients on glucocorticoids. Journal of the Endocrine Society.

                      View All References (11)

                      Dobrovoljac, M., et al. (2012). How fast does oral dexamethasone work in mild to moderately severe croup? A randomized double-blinded clinical trial. Emergency Medicine Australasia.

                      Edenbridge Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). Hemady- dexamethasone tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC. (2021). Dexamethasone sodium phosphate- dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. (2020). Dexamethasone tablet; dexamethasone intensol solution, concentrate; dexamethasone solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Johnson, D. B., et al. (2023). Dexamethasone. StatPearls.

                      Liu, D., et al. (2013). A practical guide to the monitoring and management of the complications of systemic corticosteroid therapy. Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology.

                      National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2018). Symptoms & causes of adrenal insufficiency & Addison's disease.

                      Thau, L., et al. (2023). Physiology, cortisol. StatPearls.

                      Xspire Pharma, Llc. (2022). Taperdex 6-day- dexamethasone tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Yasir, M., et al. (2023). Corticosteroid adverse effects. StatPearls.

                      Zoorob, R. J., et al. (1998). A different look at corticosteroids. American Family Physician.

                      GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                      Was this page helpful?

                      Compare other Eczema, Psoriasis, Ulcerative Colitis, Eye Inflammation, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Asthma, Leukemia, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Edema, Gout, Anaphylaxis, Multiple Sclerosis, Tuberculosis, Lupus, Chronic ITP drugs

                      Browse medications

                      View All

                      Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.