About-cancer/treatment/drugs/dexamethasone
Dexamethasone
This page contains brief information about dexamethasone and a collection of links to more information about the use of this drug, research results, and ongoing clinical trials.
FDA Approved
Yes
FDA label information for this drug is available at DailyMed.
Use in Cancer
Dexamethasone is approved to be used to reduce inflammation and suppress (lower) the body's immune response.
It is used with other drugs to treat the following types of cancer:
- Leukemia.
- Lymphoma.
- Mycosis fungoides (a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma).
Dexamethasone is also used alone or with other drugs to prevent or treat the following conditions related to cancer:
- Anemia.
- Cerebral edema (fluid build-up in the brain) associated with brain tumors.
- Drug hypersensitivity (allergic reactions).
- Hypercalcemia (high blood levels of calcium).
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet levels).
Dexamethasone is also used alone or with other drugs to treat many other diseases and conditions. The drug continues to be studied in the treatment of many types of cancer and other conditions.
More About Dexamethasone
Definition from the NCI Drug Dictionary - Detailed scientific definition and other names for this drug.
MedlinePlus Information on Dexamethasone - A lay language summary of important information about this drug that may include the following:
- warnings about this drug,
- what this drug is used for and how it is used,
- what you should tell your doctor before using this drug,
- what you should know about this drug before using it,
- other drugs that may interact with this drug, and
- possible side effects.
Drugs are often studied to find out if they can help treat or prevent conditions other than the ones they are approved for. This patient information sheet applies only to approved uses of the drug. However, much of the information may also apply to unapproved uses that are being studied.
Research Results and Related Resources
Treatment for Children with Leukemia Also Effective for Adolescents, Young Adults
Three-Drug Combination Extends Survival for Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Three-Drug Combination Benefits Some Patients With Relapsed Multiple Myeloma
Pomalidomide Plus Low-Dose Dexamethasone Improves Survival for Patients With Multiple Myeloma
Clinical Trials Accepting Patients
Find Clinical Trials for Dexamethasone - Check for trials from NCI's list of cancer clinical trials now accepting patients.
Important: The drug information on this page is meant to be educational. It is not a substitute for medical advice. The information may not cover all possible uses, actions, interactions, or side effects of this drug, or precautions to be taken while using it. Please see your health care professional for more information about your specific medical condition and the use of this drug.