Taperdex 12-Day 1.5mg Pack
It is used for many health problems like allergy signs, asthma, adrenal gland problems, blood problems, skin rashes, or swelling problems. This is not a list of all health problems that this drug may be used for. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Dexamethasone is a type of steroid medicine that helps reduce inflammation (swelling and redness) and calm down an overactive immune system. It's used for many conditions like allergies, asthma, skin problems, and arthritis. The Taperdex pack is designed to gradually reduce your dose over 12 days to help your body adjust and prevent side effects.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
If you take your medication once a day, it's best to take it in the morning.
Take your medication with food to help prevent stomach upset.
Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start to feel well.
If you're also taking cholestyramine, you may need to take it at a different time than your other medication. Be sure to talk to your pharmacist about the best schedule for your medications.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To keep your medication safe and effective:
Store it at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist.
Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of your medication. You may also want to look into drug take-back programs in your area.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose of your medication:
Take it as soon as you remember.
However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
If you take your medication once a day, it's best to take it in the morning.
Take your medication with food to help prevent stomach upset.
Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start to feel well.
If you're also taking cholestyramine, you may need to take it at a different time than your other medication. Be sure to talk to your pharmacist about the best schedule for your medications.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To keep your medication safe and effective:
Store it at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist.
Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of your medication. You may also want to look into drug take-back programs in your area.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose of your medication:
Take it as soon as you remember.
However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed, following the specific daily schedule on the pack. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms.
- Take your dose with food or milk to help prevent stomach upset.
- Take your dose in the morning if possible, to minimize sleep disturbances.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick or have infections, as this medication can weaken your immune system.
- Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your doctor immediately.
- Carry a medical alert card or wear a bracelet stating you are taking a steroid, especially if on long-term therapy, in case of emergency.
- Limit alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of stomach irritation.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
For Taperdex 12-Day 1.5mg Pack (Dexamethasone 1.5mg tablets): Day 1: 6 tablets (9 mg); Day 2: 5 tablets (7.5 mg); Day 3: 4 tablets (6 mg); Day 4: 3 tablets (4.5 mg); Day 5: 2 tablets (3 mg); Days 6-12: 1 tablet (1.5 mg). Administer once daily, preferably in the morning, with food.
Dose Range:
1.5 - 9 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Inflammatory/Allergic Conditions (as part of a tapering regimen):
As per the specific 12-day pack schedule.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established for this specific pre-packaged regimen. Dosing must be individualized based on condition, weight, and clinical response.
Infant:
Not established for this specific pre-packaged regimen. Dosing must be individualized based on condition, weight, and clinical response.
Child:
Not established for this specific pre-packaged regimen. Dosing must be individualized based on condition, weight, and clinical response.
Adolescent:
Not established for this specific pre-packaged regimen. Dosing must be individualized based on condition, weight, and clinical response.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment generally required.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment generally required.
Severe:
No specific dose adjustment generally required.
Dialysis:
Dexamethasone is not significantly removed by hemodialysis; no supplemental dose needed post-dialysis.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment generally required.
Moderate:
Use with caution; dose reduction may be considered in severe impairment due to altered metabolism.
Severe:
Use with caution; dose reduction may be considered due to altered metabolism and clearance. Monitor for increased side effects.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Dexamethasone is a synthetic adrenocortical steroid that is a potent glucocorticoid. It binds to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene expression. This leads to widespread effects, including potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions by inhibiting the synthesis of inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins, leukotrienes), suppressing the migration of leukocytes, and reversing increased capillary permeability. It also affects carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism, and maintains vascular tone.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
80-90%
Tmax:
1-2 hours (oral)
FoodEffect:
Food may slightly delay absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption. Taking with food can reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Distribution:
Vd:
0.8 L/kg
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 77% (primarily to albumin)
CnssPenetration:
Yes
Elimination:
HalfLife:
3-4.5 hours (plasma); 36-54 hours (biological)
Clearance:
Not readily available, but primarily hepatic metabolism and renal excretion of metabolites.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (as inactive metabolites)
Unchanged:
<10%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours (oral)
PeakEffect:
1-2 hours (oral)
DurationOfAction:
Biological half-life of 36-54 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of infection: fever, chills, severe sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, increased or changed sputum production, painful urination, mouth sores, or a wound that won't heal
Signs of low potassium levels: muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or an abnormal heartbeat
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problem): severe stomach pain, severe back pain, or severe nausea and vomiting
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea and vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, increased thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
Skin changes: acne, stretch marks, slow healing, or excessive hair growth
Purple, red, blue, brown, or black bumps or patches on the skin or in the mouth
Abnormal heartbeat (fast, slow, or irregular)
Chest pain or pressure
Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
Changes in menstrual periods
Bone or joint pain
Muscle pain or weakness
Changes in vision
Changes in behavior or mood
Seizures
Burning, numbness, or tingling sensations that are not normal
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Severe stomach pain
Black, tarry, or bloody stools, or vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or persist:
Nausea or vomiting
Sleep disturbances
Restlessness
Excessive sweating
Hair thinning
Headache
Dizziness, fatigue, or weakness
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Hiccups
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of infection: fever, chills, severe sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, increased or changed sputum production, painful urination, mouth sores, or a wound that won't heal
Signs of low potassium levels: muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or an abnormal heartbeat
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problem): severe stomach pain, severe back pain, or severe nausea and vomiting
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea and vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, increased thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
Skin changes: acne, stretch marks, slow healing, or excessive hair growth
Purple, red, blue, brown, or black bumps or patches on the skin or in the mouth
Abnormal heartbeat (fast, slow, or irregular)
Chest pain or pressure
Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
Changes in menstrual periods
Bone or joint pain
Muscle pain or weakness
Changes in vision
Changes in behavior or mood
Seizures
Burning, numbness, or tingling sensations that are not normal
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Severe stomach pain
Black, tarry, or bloody stools, or vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or persist:
Nausea or vomiting
Sleep disturbances
Restlessness
Excessive sweating
Hair thinning
Headache
Dizziness, fatigue, or weakness
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Hiccups
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomiting blood (signs of GI bleeding)
- Swelling in your face, ankles, or hands (fluid retention)
- Unusual weight gain
- Extreme tiredness, weakness, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting (signs of adrenal insufficiency, especially if stopping suddenly)
- Blurred vision or eye pain
- Increased thirst or urination (signs of high blood sugar)
- Mood changes (severe depression, euphoria, confusion)
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat, body aches, cough, painful urination)
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Easy bruising or skin thinning
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
The presence of any infection, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, as well as specific conditions like:
+ Amoeba infection (e.g., traveler's diarrhea)
+ Herpes infection of the eye
+ Malaria infection in the brain
+ Threadworm infestation
+ Other types of infections
Nerve problems affecting the eye
Stomach or bowel problems, such as:
+ Diverticulitis
+ Ulcerative colitis
+ Ulcers
+ Recent bowel surgery
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
The presence of any infection, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, as well as specific conditions like:
+ Amoeba infection (e.g., traveler's diarrhea)
+ Herpes infection of the eye
+ Malaria infection in the brain
+ Threadworm infestation
+ Other types of infections
Nerve problems affecting the eye
Stomach or bowel problems, such as:
+ Diverticulitis
+ Ulcerative colitis
+ Ulcers
+ Recent bowel surgery
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests, as directed by your doctor, are crucial to monitor your health. Additionally, if you are taking this medication long-term, you may need to undergo eye pressure and bone density checks.
This medication can interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is vital to notify all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking it. Be aware that drugs like this one can cause high blood pressure, so regular blood pressure checks, as advised by your doctor, are necessary.
If you are scheduled to undergo allergy skin tests, inform your doctor and lab workers that you are taking this medication, as it may affect the test results. Long-term use of this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma, so discuss this with your doctor.
Prolonged use of this medication can also lead to osteoporosis (weak bones). Consult your doctor to determine if you are at a higher risk or if you have any concerns. You may need to reduce your salt intake and increase your potassium consumption, so discuss this with your doctor.
If you have diabetes, it is crucial to closely monitor your blood sugar levels. Before consuming alcohol, consult your doctor. Additionally, before receiving any vaccines, discuss this with your doctor, as some vaccines may not be effective or may increase the risk of infection when taken with this medication.
It is essential to be aware that chickenpox and measles can be severe or even life-threatening in individuals taking steroid medications like this one. Avoid close contact with people who have these illnesses, and if you have been exposed, inform your doctor. Steroid medications, including this one, can increase the risk of infection, which can be mild or severe. Wash your hands frequently, avoid people with infections, and notify your doctor if you experience any signs of infection.
Some infections, such as tuberculosis and hepatitis B, can reactivate in individuals taking medications like this one. Inform your doctor if you have a history of these infections.
This medication can suppress your body's natural production of steroids. If you experience fever, infection, surgery, or injury, inform your doctor, as your body's response to these stresses may be affected, and you may require additional steroid doses.
If you have been taking this medication for an extended period, consult your doctor before stopping, as you may need to gradually taper off the medication. If you have missed a dose or recently stopped taking this medication and experience fatigue, weakness, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, sweating, or dizziness, inform your doctor.
Long-term use of this medication has been associated with an increased risk of Kaposi's sarcoma, a type of cancer. Discuss this with your doctor. Patients with cancer may be at a higher risk of developing tumor lysis syndrome (TLS), a potentially life-threatening condition, so inform your doctor.
If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects. This medication can affect growth in children and adolescents, so regular growth checks may be necessary. Discuss this with your doctor.
This medication can also lower sperm counts, so if you have concerns, consult your doctor. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor. If you took this medication during pregnancy, inform your baby's doctor.
It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and attend all scheduled appointments to ensure safe and effective use of this medication.
This medication can interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is vital to notify all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking it. Be aware that drugs like this one can cause high blood pressure, so regular blood pressure checks, as advised by your doctor, are necessary.
If you are scheduled to undergo allergy skin tests, inform your doctor and lab workers that you are taking this medication, as it may affect the test results. Long-term use of this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma, so discuss this with your doctor.
Prolonged use of this medication can also lead to osteoporosis (weak bones). Consult your doctor to determine if you are at a higher risk or if you have any concerns. You may need to reduce your salt intake and increase your potassium consumption, so discuss this with your doctor.
If you have diabetes, it is crucial to closely monitor your blood sugar levels. Before consuming alcohol, consult your doctor. Additionally, before receiving any vaccines, discuss this with your doctor, as some vaccines may not be effective or may increase the risk of infection when taken with this medication.
It is essential to be aware that chickenpox and measles can be severe or even life-threatening in individuals taking steroid medications like this one. Avoid close contact with people who have these illnesses, and if you have been exposed, inform your doctor. Steroid medications, including this one, can increase the risk of infection, which can be mild or severe. Wash your hands frequently, avoid people with infections, and notify your doctor if you experience any signs of infection.
Some infections, such as tuberculosis and hepatitis B, can reactivate in individuals taking medications like this one. Inform your doctor if you have a history of these infections.
This medication can suppress your body's natural production of steroids. If you experience fever, infection, surgery, or injury, inform your doctor, as your body's response to these stresses may be affected, and you may require additional steroid doses.
If you have been taking this medication for an extended period, consult your doctor before stopping, as you may need to gradually taper off the medication. If you have missed a dose or recently stopped taking this medication and experience fatigue, weakness, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, sweating, or dizziness, inform your doctor.
Long-term use of this medication has been associated with an increased risk of Kaposi's sarcoma, a type of cancer. Discuss this with your doctor. Patients with cancer may be at a higher risk of developing tumor lysis syndrome (TLS), a potentially life-threatening condition, so inform your doctor.
If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects. This medication can affect growth in children and adolescents, so regular growth checks may be necessary. Discuss this with your doctor.
This medication can also lower sperm counts, so if you have concerns, consult your doctor. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor. If you took this medication during pregnancy, inform your baby's doctor.
It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and attend all scheduled appointments to ensure safe and effective use of this medication.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Acute overdose is rare but may include: increased blood pressure, fluid retention, hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, and psychiatric disturbances (e.g., agitation, psychosis).
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222). Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines (during immunosuppressive doses)
Major Interactions
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampin, Carbamazepine): May decrease dexamethasone levels, requiring dose increase.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Ritonavir, Clarithromycin): May increase dexamethasone levels, requiring dose reduction.
- NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
- Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): May alter anticoagulant effect (increase or decrease), requiring close INR monitoring.
- Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop): Increased risk of hypokalemia.
- Antidiabetic agents (e.g., Insulin, Metformin): May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic therapy.
- Cholestyramine, Colestipol: May decrease absorption of dexamethasone.
- Cardiac Glycosides (e.g., Digoxin): Increased risk of digitalis toxicity due to hypokalemia.
Moderate Interactions
- Oral Contraceptives: May increase dexamethasone levels.
- Cyclosporine: Increased risk of seizures and other CNS effects.
- Fluoroquinolones: Increased risk of tendon rupture.
- Vaccines (inactivated): Reduced immune response to vaccines.
Minor Interactions
- Antacids: May reduce absorption if taken concurrently (separate administration).
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Blood Pressure
Rationale: Corticosteroids can cause hypertension.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Blood Glucose
Rationale: Corticosteroids can induce hyperglycemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Serum Electrolytes (especially Potassium)
Rationale: Risk of hypokalemia and fluid retention.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Bone Mineral Density (if long-term use anticipated)
Rationale: Risk of osteoporosis with prolonged use.
Timing: Prior to initiation (for courses longer than the 12-day pack)
Routine Monitoring
Blood Pressure
Frequency: Daily to weekly, depending on clinical status
Target: Individualized, maintain within normal limits
Action Threshold: Significant elevation (e.g., >140/90 mmHg) or symptomatic hypertension
Blood Glucose
Frequency: Daily to weekly, especially in diabetics or those at risk
Target: Individualized, maintain within normal limits
Action Threshold: Persistent hyperglycemia (>180 mg/dL) or symptomatic hyperglycemia
Serum Electrolytes (especially Potassium)
Frequency: Weekly, especially if on diuretics or with pre-existing electrolyte imbalances
Target: Potassium 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Potassium <3.5 mEq/L or symptomatic hypokalemia
Weight and Fluid Balance
Frequency: Daily to weekly
Target: Stable weight, no signs of edema
Action Threshold: Significant weight gain or development of edema
Signs of Infection
Frequency: Ongoing clinical assessment
Target: Absence of fever, localized pain, redness, swelling
Action Threshold: Development of fever, chills, new pain, or other signs of infection
Symptom Monitoring
- Mood changes (irritability, anxiety, depression, euphoria)
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia)
- Fluid retention (swelling in ankles, feet, hands)
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Gastrointestinal upset (heartburn, indigestion, abdominal pain)
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Easy bruising or thinning skin
- Signs of infection (fever, sore throat, cough, painful urination)
- Vision changes (blurred vision, eye pain)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness after discontinuation (signs of adrenal insufficiency)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Dexamethasone crosses the placenta. Observe neonates for signs of hypoadrenalism if mothers received corticosteroids during pregnancy.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for increased risk of oral clefts, though data are conflicting and overall risk is low.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still used with caution.
Third Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth restriction, premature delivery, and neonatal adrenal suppression. Monitor neonates for signs of hypoadrenalism.
Lactation
L3 (Moderately Safe). Dexamethasone is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. Monitor breastfed infants for signs of adverse effects, such as growth suppression or adrenal suppression, especially with high doses or prolonged use. Consider using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Infant Risk:
Low to moderate risk. Potential for growth suppression, adrenal suppression, or other systemic effects in the infant, though unlikely with short-term, low-dose use.
Pediatric Use
Corticosteroids can cause growth retardation in children. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. Monitor growth and development carefully. The Taperdex 12-Day 1.5mg Pack is a fixed adult regimen and generally not suitable for direct pediatric application; pediatric dosing must be individualized.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may be at increased risk for adverse effects, including osteoporosis, fluid retention, hypertension, and diabetes. Use the lowest effective dose and monitor closely for side effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always emphasize the importance of not abruptly discontinuing dexamethasone due to the risk of adrenal insufficiency. The Taperdex pack is designed to facilitate a safe taper.
- Advise patients to take dexamethasone with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal irritation.
- Educate patients about potential mood changes and sleep disturbances, which are common side effects.
- Monitor for signs of infection, as corticosteroids can mask symptoms and increase susceptibility.
- For patients on long-term therapy (beyond this 12-day pack), consider calcium and vitamin D supplementation to mitigate bone loss.
- Patients should carry identification indicating corticosteroid use, especially if they have been on long-term therapy, in case of emergency.
Alternative Therapies
- Other systemic corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone, Methylprednisolone)
- NSAIDs (for inflammatory conditions, if appropriate and less severe)
- Specific disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics (for chronic inflammatory conditions)
- Topical corticosteroids (for localized inflammatory conditions)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $50 per 12-day pack (e.g., 30 tablets of 1.5mg)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (preferred generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide information about what was taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.