Dexamethasone Weight Gain

Healthcare providers typically prescribe
 dexamethasone for conditions that cause inflammation and prompt an exaggerated response by the immune system, such as arthritis, Crohn's disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. As a steroid medication, there are certain warnings and precautions to be aware of during treatment.
 
For example, if you experience swelling, an increase in blood pressure, or unexplained weight gain with dexamethasone, contact your healthcare provider right away. These may be signs of a potentially serious condition.
 
In addition, people who have hypertension may be more prone to weight gain due to the fact that dexamethasone causes the body to retain salt and water. In such cases, your healthcare provider may recommend a low-salt diet.
 
(Click Dexamethasone Precautions and Warnings to learn about other safety concerns to be aware of during treatment, including who should avoid the drug altogether.)
 
List of references (click here)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
Referring Pages Articles