Dexamethasone 0.5 mg. (Tablets)

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid. It acts to reduce inflammation and swelling. In dentistry it is prescribed to reduce the swelling that follows surgery in the mouth or jaw, and your dentist will normally prescribe it as a short course. This medicine must be used only when a dentist or a doctor has prescribed it.

1) Precautions Before Using Dexamethasone: Tell your dentist if you

• Have an infection that has not been treated.
• Have diabetes, as this medicine can raise blood sugar.
• Have a history of stomach disease or peptic ulcer.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have previously had an allergic reaction to a steroid.
• Take any regular medication.

2) How to take the medicine

• Take the dose, and for the number of days, that your dentist prescribed. This is decided case by case according to the procedure.
• Take it with food, or immediately after food, to reduce stomach irritation.

2.1 If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose.

2.2 Please complete the full number of days prescribed, even if the swelling settles sooner. Do not change the dose yourself without asking your dentist.

3) Possible risks of the medicine: Taken as a short course as your dentist prescribed, this medicine does not usually cause serious side effects. You may notice difficulty sleeping, increased appetite, mood changes, higher blood sugar, or stomach irritation. If you have signs of an allergic reaction such as a rash, swelling of the face, or difficulty breathing, stop the medicine and see a doctor immediately.

4) How to store the medicine: Store at room temperature, away from sunlight, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.

Note: This information is a general summary. Please read the medicine label before use, and consult your dentist, doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Dexamethasone in Dental Treatment

Why this medicine is prescribed

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid.

Your dentist prescribed it to reduce the swelling that follows a major oral or jaw operation. It is not a painkiller and it is not an antibiotic, so it does not replace anything else you were given. Take it exactly as prescribed, and if you have any question about it, please ask the clinic rather than changing it yourself.

Medication manages what you feel. It does not remove the cause of the problem — a tooth that needs treatment still needs treatment.

Which dental procedures it is prescribed for

• Jaw Surgery
• Dental Implants — Dental Implants, Post-Operative Care
• Tooth Extraction / Wisdom Teeth — Tooth Extraction, Wisdom Teeth, Post-Operative Care

If pain persists or worsens, please contact the clinic.