dexamethasone-injectable (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, heart problems, stomach or intestinal problems (e.g., ulcers), high blood pressure, brittle bones (osteoporosis), seizures, blood clots (thromboembolism), bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia), recent infections, mental disorders (e.g., depression, schizophrenia), glandular diseases (e.g., thyroid, adrenal), diabetes, myasthenia gravis, herpes infections, eye problems, any allergies. When used for extended periods and/or used in children, this drug can suppress your immune system function. Tell your doctor if you experience any injuries and/or signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat, muscle aches, pain during urination) during treatment and within 12 months after treatment with this drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Avoid contact with people currently infected with the chicken pox or measles. Consult your doctor immediately if you think you have been exposed to the chicken pox or measles virus. Do not have vaccinations/immunizations/skin tests while you are taking this drug unless directed by your doctor. If you have diabetes, this drug may increase your blood sugar levels. Test your blood for sugar (glucose) frequently and contact your doctor if your levels are high; your dose of diabetes medicine and your diet may need to be changed or adjusted. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death), if given in large amounts (more than 100 mg/kg daily) to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is also greater with low birth weight infants. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. Caution is advised when using this drug in children because it can affect their growth (suppress growth hormone). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and has had undesirable effects on nursing infants. Consult your doctor before breast- feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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