Dexona Injection 2ml

Introduction About DEXONA INJECTION

DEXONA INJECTION contains Dexamethasone which belongs to the group of medicines called Corticosteroids. It is used to manage problematic conditions of the adrenal glands (such as adrenal insufficiency, congenital adrenal hyperplasia and nonsuppurative thyroiditis).

It manages various inflammatory auto-immune disease conditions affecting the bones and joints (Ex. rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), skin and collagen (Ex. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, psoriasis), eyes (Ex. optic neuritis, uveitis or iritis), respiratory tract (Ex. asthma, pneumonitis, tuberculosis), blood and lymph (Ex. leukaemia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, blood cancer, lymph cancer, sarcoidosis), bowel and gut (Ex. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), brain (Ex. tuberculous meningitis, cerebral edema associated with brain tumor, increased pressure within the skull) and heart (inflammation of heart membranes).

It is also indicated in the management of drug induced hypersensitivity reactions and in other allergic reactions (such as atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis and allergic rhinitis), It corrects calcium levels among cancer patients and increases urine output or reduces protein loss via urine among patients having kidney problems (such as nephrotic syndrome).

Before receiving DEXONA INJECTION inform your doctor if you any liver, kidney or heart problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have diabetes, hypertension, glaucoma, epilepsy, underactive thyroid, muscle problems, osteoporosis, stomach problems, tuberculosis, depression, mania or any other mental problems as a precaution.

DEXONA INJECTION is not recommended for use in patients with serious unmanageed infections in the body or bone problems. It is also not suitable for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Common side effects of receiving DEXONA INJECTION are headache, dizziness, stomach discomfort, slow wound healing, skin thinning, high blood pressure, fluid retention, and irregular menstrual periods. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens.

Uses Of DEXONA INJECTION

It is used to manage the following disease conditions:

• adrenal insufficiency and its associated conditions
• bone and joint problems (Ex. rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)
• skin and collagen disorders (Ex. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, psoriasis)
• eye problems (Ex. optic neuritis, uveitis or iritis)
• respiratory tract diseases (Ex. asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonitis)
• blood cancer (leukemia), lymph cancer (lymphoma)
• anemia (low RBC count in blood), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count in blood)
• problems of bowel and gut (Ex. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
• brain problems (Ex. tuberculous meningitis, cerebral edema)
• increased intracranial pressure
• heart inflammation (Ex. endocarditis)
• drug induced hypersensitivity reactions
• allergic reactions (such as atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis and allergic rhinitis)
• high blood calcium levels caused due to cancer management
• protein loss via urine due to kidney problems

Benefits of DEXONA INJECTION

1. Helps Manage Moderate to Severe Inflammation
Dexona contains dexamethasone, a corticosteroid that helps the body control excessive inflammatory responses. It is often used when rapid control of inflammation is needed under medical supervision.

2. Supports Treatment Protocols in Allergic Reactions
Clinicians may use Dexona Injection during moderate or severe allergic reactions to help stabilise symptoms that arise due to sudden immune overactivity.

3. Plays a Role in Reducing Swelling in Various Medical Conditions
Under medical guidance, dexamethasone helps relieve swelling and tissue irritation in different acute conditions where inflammation needs to be brought under control quickly.

4. Helps Restore Hormonal Balance in Corticosteroid Deficiency
In certain cases of adrenal insufficiency, dexamethasone may be part of the treatment approach to replace or supplement missing corticosteroids.

5. Useful in Specific Emergency Care Protocols
Because the injection works quickly, it is often used in emergency or hospital settings where fast corticosteroid action is required.

How DEXONA INJECTION Works

Dexona contains dexamethasone sodium phosphate, a potent synthetic glucocorticoid. Its mechanism can be explained step-by-step:

1. Modulates Body’s Immune Response

Dexamethasone enters cells and binds to glucocorticoid receptors.
This receptor–drug complex then moves into the cell nucleus and influences gene transcription.

2. Suppresses Pro-Inflammatory Chemicals

It reduces production of:

• Prostaglandins
• Leukotrienes
• Cytokines (like IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alpha)

These are the substances responsible for swelling, pain, redness, and fever.

3. Stabilizes Cell Membranes

It stabilizes lysosomal membranes and reduces the release of enzymes that contribute to tissue damage during inflammation.

4. Lowers Capillary Permeability

By strengthening the microvascular walls, dexamethasone decreases leakage of fluid into tissues, thereby reducing swelling and edema.

5. Reduces Immune System Overactivation

It decreases the activity and migration of immune cells (like macrophages and lymphocytes), helping prevent further inflammatory escalation.

6. Provides Long-Lasting Anti-Inflammatory Action

Compared to natural cortisol, dexamethasone stays active longer due to its high affinity for glucocorticoid receptors and slower metabolism.

How to use DEXONA INJECTION

1. For Administration by Healthcare Professionals Only

Dexona Injection is not for self-use.
It must be administered by:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Trained healthcare providers

2. Route of Administration

Depending on the clinical requirement, healthcare professionals may administer it via:

• Intravenous (IV)
• Intramuscular (IM)
• Slow IV infusion (in specific situations)

3. Dose is Based on Clinical Assessment

The doctor decides:

• Dose strength
• Frequency
• Duration
  based on the severity of the condition, patient’s age, weight, and medical history.

4. Monitoring During and After Administration

Healthcare professionals may monitor:

• Blood pressure
• Glucose levels
• Electrolytes
• Symptoms of allergic reaction

5. Do Not Stop Abruptly Without Medical Guidance

If multiple doses are given, doctors typically taper corticosteroids gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms or adrenal imbalance.

6. Follow Medical Instructions for Follow-Up Tests

Depending on the condition, clinicians may advise:

• Blood tests
• Electrolyte panels
• Blood sugar monitoring
• Eye or bone health evaluations (for prolonged use)

Side Effects Of DEXONA INJECTION

Common

• headache, dizziness
• spinning sensation, increased sweating
• acne, skin rash, bruising
• nausea, stomach pain or discomfort, increased appetite
• changes in vision, feeling weak or tired, slow wound healing
• skin thinning
• fits
• difficulty in swallowing, sore throat
• high blood pressure, fluid retention
• swelling and weight gain of the body and face
• high blood sugar levels, with excessive thirst
• muscle weakness and wasting
• bone thinning with an increased risk of fractures
• raised pressure in the eye, cataracts
• irregular or lack of menstrual periods
• increased infections

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

• signs of allergic reaction (such as skin rash, itching, blistering and peeling of the skin, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, throat which may lead to breathing difficulties)
• severe skin rashes with blistering and peeling of skin
• feeling depressed, suicidal thoughts, mania, mood swings
• anxiety, sleeping problems, problems in thinking, confusion, memory loss
• hallucinations, strange thoughts, behavioural changes
• signs of pheochromocytoma crisis (headaches, sweating, palpitations and hypertension)
• signs of bleeding in the gut (such as stomach pain which radiates until your back, bleeding from the anus, black or blood-stained stools, blood in vomit)
• signs of flare up of a previous tuberculosis infection (such as coughing blood or pain in the chest)
• signs of pancreatitis (inflammation of pancreas causing severe stomach pain and vomiting)
• signs of blood clot in lungs (such as sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood)
• signs of increased pressure within the skull (such as severe headaches with vomiting, lack of energy and drowsiness) usually occurs once therapy is stopped

Warning & Precautions

Other Warnings for DEXONA INJECTION

Before receiving DEXONA INJECTION, inform your doctor if you:

• currently have or previously had depression, bipolar disorder or any other mental illnesses
• have a family history of mental problems
• have diabetes or a family history of diabetes
• have fits
• have or have a family history of glaucoma
• have viral or fungal infections of the eyes
• have hypertension (high blood pressure)
• have underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)
• have malaria affecting the brain
• have or had been in contact with someone who has chickenpox, measles or shingles
• have any muscle problems (Ex. myasthenia gravis)
• have osteoporosis (brittle bones)
• have pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor of the adrenal glands)
• have stomach ulcer or other serious stomach or intestinal problems
• have or had tuberculosis
• have symptoms of tumour lysis syndrome (such as muscle cramping, muscle weakness, confusion, visual loss or disturbances and shortness of breath)
• are scheduled for any upcoming surgery (including dental surgery)
• have any parasitic infection
• have Cushing’s disease
• have brain injury due to trauma
• have had stroke or any unusual stress

Who should not take DEXONA INJECTION

DEXONA INJECTION is not recommended for use if you:

• have any serious infection that affects the whole body
• have any bone or joint problems
• have infections in the joints
• are about to get vaccinated (live-virus vaccine)

Drug - Drug interaction

Major Interactions

1. NSAIDs (Painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, aspirin)

• Increased risk of stomach irritation, ulcers, or internal bleeding.
• Steroids + NSAIDs amplify gastric acid secretion and reduce mucosal protection.

2. Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Heparin, DOACs such as Apixaban/Rivaroxaban)

• Can alter blood thinning levels. Dexamethasone may either reduce or enhance anticoagulant effect → requires INR monitoring.

3. Antidiabetic Medicines (Metformin, Insulin, Glimepiride, etc.)

• Steroids increase blood glucose.
• May reduce effectiveness of antidiabetic drugs → dose adjustment often required.

4. Immunosuppressants (Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus)

• Can increase levels of both medicines leading to kidney toxicity, tremors, or seizures.
• Requires close therapeutic monitoring.

5. Live Vaccines (MMR, Varicella, BCG, Intranasal flu vaccine)

• Steroids suppress immunity → reduced vaccine effectiveness and increased risk of infection.
• Avoid live vaccines during or shortly after steroid therapy.

6. Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin, Ritonavir)

• Increase dexamethasone blood levels → stronger steroid effects (fluid retention, blood pressure rise).

7. Strong CYP3A4 Inducers (Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin)

• Reduce dexamethasone levels → inadequate steroid effect.

8. Diuretics (Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide)

• Risk of low potassium (hypokalemia), which can cause muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat.
• Higher risk when combined with steroids.

9. Digoxin

• Due to steroid-induced low potassium levels, digoxin toxicity risk increases.

10. Antibiotics (Fluoroquinolones like Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin)

• Combined use increases the risk of tendon rupture.

11. Antiretroviral Medicines (HIV therapy)

• Certain HIV drugs affect steroid metabolism → may cause adrenal suppression or Cushing-like symptoms.

12. Anticonvulsants (Epilepsy medicines)

• Drugs like phenytoin, phenobarbital, and carbamazepine speed up steroid breakdown → reduced effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions

13. Hormonal Contraceptives / Estrogen Therapy

• Estrogens can increase the effects of dexamethasone by reducing its metabolism.

14. Muscle Relaxants (Non-depolarizing agents used in surgery)

• Steroids may reduce the effect of these medicines → adjust dose during anesthesia.

15. Antacids

• May reduce steroid absorption if taken closely together (mainly relevant to oral forms).

Mild or Monitor-Required Interactions

16. Other Steroids (Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone)

• Additive effect → higher chance of fluid retention, BP rise, and immune suppression.

17. Vaccines (Inactivated)

• Generally safe but vaccine response may be reduced due to immune suppression.

Synopsis

Drug	:	Dexamethasone
Pharmacological Category	:	Corticosteroids
Therapeutic Indication	:	Adrenal insufficiency, Auto Immune Disease, Allergic reactions, Proteinuria
Dosage Forms	:	Tablet, Injection, Eye drops, Eye/Ear Drops

More Information

1. What Makes Dexona Injection Clinically Distinct?

Dexona Injection contains dexamethasone sodium phosphate, a high-potency synthetic corticosteroid that is 25–30 times more potent than natural hydrocortisone.
This allows significant anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects with much smaller doses, making it suitable for acute medical situations where rapid action is needed.

Key differentiator:
It has excellent water solubility, allowing:

• Rapid onset of action (within minutes after IV/IM administration)
• High bioavailability
• Seamless use in emergency care settings

2. Steroid Profile: Why Dexamethasone Is Preferred in Many Conditions

Dexamethasone has a unique pharmacological profile compared to other steroids:

? Long Duration of Action

• Effect lasts 36–72 hours, reducing the need for frequent dosing.
• This is especially helpful in acute allergic reactions or severe inflammations.

? Negligible Mineralocorticoid Activity

Unlike prednisolone or hydrocortisone, Dexona does not cause significant salt or water retention, making it safer in:

• Hypertension
• Kidney disorders
• Heart failure
• Edema-prone patients

This is a major advantage in hospitalized or critically ill patients.

3. Formulation Advantage: Sterile & Preservative-Free

Dexona Injection 2 ml is typically:

• Sterile
• Preservative-free
• pH-balanced, reducing irritation at the injection site
• Suitable for both IV push, IV infusion, or IM routes

Its buffer system allows safe administration directly into the venous system without causing vein irritation.

4. Expert Insight: How Dexona Compares to Other Steroids

Dexamethasone vs. Hydrocortisone

• ~25x stronger
• Longer effect
• No sodium retention

Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

• Longer duration
• Higher glucocorticoid potency
• More suitable for cerebral applications due to BBB penetration

FAQs About DEXONA INJECTION

Q: Can I stop receiving DEXONA INJECTION once by pain reduces?

A: Take DEXONA INJECTION for the stipulated duration recommended by your doctor to achieve maximum results. Do not stop receiving DEXONA INJECTION or reduce the dose without consulting your doctor, as sudden cessation of the therapy may lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as skin itchiness, fever, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, runny nose, tiredness or weight loss, especially if you are receiving higher dose of dexamethasone.

Q: Can DEXONA INJECTION be used in children?

A: DEXONA INJECTION should be used in children and adolescents (aged below 18 years) only if prescribed by the physician. Therefore, consult your doctor for advice before receiving it.

Q: Can DEXONA INJECTION be used in pregnant women?

A: DEXONA INJECTION is not recommended for use in pregnant women as it may cause serious harm to the growing baby. Therefore, consult your doctor before receiving it.

Q: What is DEXONA INJECTION used for?

A: DEXONA INJECTION is a corticosteroid medicine used to manage adrenal insufficiency. It can also be used to manage drug induced hypersensitivity reactions, allergic reactions and various inflammatory auto-immune disease conditions affecting the skin, collagen, bones and joints, brain, gut, eyes etc. It also increases urine output and manages protein loss via urine among patients having kidney problems.

Q: How DEXONA INJECTION is administered?

A: DEXONA INJECTION will be given to you only by a doctor or a nurse into the vein, muscle, joints or tendons depending upon the site of inflammation.

Q: Is DEXONA INJECTION a steroid?

A: Yes. DEXONA INJECTION is corticosteroid used to manage problems of adrenal gland and various allergic, hypersensitivity and inflammatory autoimmune disease conditions.

Q: What are the most common side effects of DEXONA INJECTION?

A: The most common side effects of receiving DEXONA INJECTION are headache, dizziness, acne, stomach discomfort, slow wound healing, skin thinning, high blood pressure, fluid retention, swelling and weight gain of the body and face, high blood sugar levels, muscle weakness, bone thinning and irregular menstrual periods. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens.

Q: Can DEXONA INJECTION make you feel high?

A: Yes. DEXONA INJECTION may make you feel high. Such symptoms may disappear once the therapy has been stopped. However, consult your doctor if it bothers you.

Q: Can I take a higher dose of DEXONA INJECTION?

A: No. It is not safe to take a higher dose of DEXONA INJECTION without consulting your doctor. If the prescribed dose is less effective for you, kindly consult your doctor for a suitable high dose or for an alternative therapy.

Q: Can I take DEXONA INJECTION daily?

A: Your doctor will evaluate your health condition and suggests whether can you take DEXONA INJECTION every day or not.

References

1. KD. Tripathi. Hormones and Related Drugs. Essentials of Medical Pharmacology. 7th Edition. 2013. Page – 289.

2. Donavon B. Johnson; Michael J. Lopez; Brendan Kelley. Dexamethasone. StatPearls. NIH. National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PMC. PubMed central. May 2022. [Accessed on 22nd May 2026]. 

3. Siegfried Hameln GmbH. Dexamethasone 3.3 mg/ml Injection Dexamethasone sodium phosphate. Electronics Medicines Compendium. [Revised in January 2022]. [Accessed on 22nd May 2026]. 

4. Aspen Pharma Trading Limited. Dexamethasone 3.8 mg/ml solution for injection Dexamethasone. Electronics Medicines Compendium. [Revised in January 2022]. [Accessed on 22nd May 2026]. 

5. Sandoz Canada Inc. DEXAMETHASONE SODIUM PHOSPHATE INJECTION USP (4 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL). [Revised in June 2020]. [Accessed on 22nd May 2026]. 

6. Dexamethasone. NHS. UK. [Revised in August 2020]. [Accessed on 22nd May 2026]. 

7. Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Injection IP Dexamethasone Tablets IP. Dexam. Getwell Oncology Pvt Ltd. 

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