Corticosteroids
Details of the Drug
- Generic Name:
- Dexamethasone
- Pronunciation:
- dek-sa-METH-a-sone
- Drug Type:
- Corticosteroid
- How the Drug is Given:
By mouth
- Names:
- Decadron ®
- Generic Name:
- Hydrocortisone
- Pronunciation:
- hy-droh-KOR-ti-sone
- Drug Type:
- Corticosteroid
- How the Drug is Given:
Intravenously (IV) or by intramuscular (IM)
or subcutaneous (SC) injection- Names:
- Hydrocortisone
- Generic Name:
- Methylprednisolone
- Pronunciation:
- MEH-thil-pred-NIS-oh-lone
- Drug Type:
- Corticosteroid
- How the Drug is Given:
By mouth
- Names:
- Medrol ®
- Corticosteroids
- Generic Name:
- Prednisone
- Pronunciation:
- PRED-ni-sone
- Drug Type:
- Corticosteroid
- How the Drug is Given:
By mouth
Indications and Usage
Dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone and prednisone are FDA approved corticosteroids that are used to treat many medical problems, including some kinds of cancer.
Side effects needing medical attention
Swelling of feet and ankles; muscle weakness; ulcers or stomach pain or burning; easy bruising; wounds that are slow to heal; dizziness; severe headaches; menstrual problems; blood-sugar problems; blurred or decreased vision or seeing halos around lights; sore throat and fever; depression; mood or mental changes; indigestion; sleeplessness; nervousness or restlessness; weight gain.
For information on how to manage the costs of drug therapy, please see Financial Support, or to speak with an Information Specialist, call (800) 955-4572.