How effective is dexamethasone for nausea?
The use of dexamethasone for nausea is effective treatment, but the mechanism that works is not fully known. The drug is used to prevent nausea in patients with chemotherapy and patients undergoing surgery. Studies have confirmed that even low doses of dexamethasone are effective in preventing nausea in most patients. The drug is classified as a glucocorticoid and is usually used to reduce swelling and inflammation. The side effects of the drug include increased appetite, sleep and dizziness problems. Doctors believe that the drug can prevent prostaglandin, which controls the contraction of smooth muscles, thereby stopping contractions that cause vomiting. It is also possible that the drug causes the release of endorphins that stimulate appetite and improve mood. Dexamethasone is given by cancer patients whose drugs can cause nausea. The drug is also used for patients undergoing surgery to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting.
Studies have confirmed that the use of dexamethasone for nausea is an effective treatment. The effectiveness of dexamethasone for nausea is comparable to traditional antiemeticics, which are drugs whose only purpose is to treat nausea. Studies controlled by placebo have confirmed that doses of up to 5 milligrams (mg) are sufficient for the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Most research uses one 8 mg dose of drug to effectively treat nausea in postoperative patients. Dexamethasone is better in the treatment of nausea in women who previously suffered from physical diseases, for unknown reasons.
doctors use dexamethasone despite the fact that the medicine is not an anti-ememis. It is classified as a glucocorticoid, which is a type of steroid. The drug is not naturally applied, like many steroids, but is made synthetically. Traditionally, the drug is used to treat inflammation and swelling in patients suffering from allergic reactions. It works by stopping white blood cells that are defense of the body against infections.
In the studies, the side effects of dexamethasone use for nausea have not been observed, but are possible. The potential side effects of the drug include headache, increased appetite and weight gain. Dexamethasone can also cause insomnia, dizziness and changes in the menstrual cycle of women. The mechanism of suppressing the immune system of the drug is infection risk for patients who use the drug regularly-all patients who experience fever or sore throat should turn to their doctor. More serious side effects of the drug include muscle cramps, excessive bruises or bleeding and seizures.