PMS DEXAMETHASONE, 4MG, TABLET

Common uses

This medication contains an anti-inflammatory drug from the cortisone family (corticosteroid). Typically, it is used to relieve inflammation and pain or as an adrenal gland hormone supplement. It may also be used to control nausea and vomiting. It produces its action on its first day of use.

How to use this medication

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed.

It is not advisable to stop using this product suddenly, particularly if you have been on it for several weeks. If you are considering stopping the medication, talk to your pharmacist first. This medication may irritate the stomach, and should be taken with food. It is best to avoid coffee, spicy food or alcohol.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may increase your appetite;
• it may cause high blood sugar levels, you may experience excessive thirst, high urine output, increased appetite, tiredness;
• it may increase your blood pressure;
• it may cause sleep disturbances or insomnia;
• it may cause nervousness or anxiety;
• it could cause water retention and swelling;
• it may cause heartburn.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Nutritional impact

When using this product over a long period of time, you will develop an increased need for certain nutrients. You can increase your intake of these nutrients through your diet, but it is recommended that you take a daily nutritional supplement for the duration of your treatment. The following table shows the nutrients that are most affected by your treatment, along with foods that are good sources of these nutrients.

Nutrient Suggested foods calcium dairy products, canned fish with bones (e.g., sardines, salmon), oysters, clams, firm tofu, sesame seeds or butter, whole almonds or almond butter, broccoli and white beans (legumes) vitamin D liver, cod liver oil, enriched milk, eggs, fish (e.g., sardines, herring, salmon, tuna, mackerel) and margarine

Additional information

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

A treatment with this medication requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.