Effects of Long-Term Use of Dexamethasone

 Dexamethasone is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids (also called glucocorticoids or just "steroids"). It comes in several different forms, including tablets, eye drops, ear drops, oral liquids, and injections, and is used to treat many different health conditions.
 
Although most people don't have problems during treatment, the longer you take dexamethasone, the greater your risk for adverse reactions. For example, some side effects that are more likely to occur with long-term dexamethasone use include:
 
  • Easy bruising
  • Weight gain
  • Fluid retention
  • Cushing's syndrome
  • Slow growth in children.
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This is why dexamethasone is typically used for just a few weeks. Longer use should only be undertaken with your healthcare provider's approval and supervision.
 
(Click Dexamethasone Side Effects to learn more about the problems associated with long-term use. This article also explains what to do if you experience any adverse effects while taking this drug.)