What are the possible side effects of dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone (Decadron, dex, etc.) is a corticosteroid, which most MM patients will be prescibed at some point during their treatment.  Some of the more common side effects to watch out for:

• This medicine may affect blood glucose (sugar) levels. If you notice a change in the results of your blood or urine sugar tests or if you have any questions, check with your doctor.
• Increased appetite
• Indigestion
• Nervousness, sleeplessness or restlessness
• flushing of face or cheeks
• Hiccups
• Increased sweating

Let your doctor know about any side effects you may experience.  Many of us take drugs like Zantac to help with the indigestion and Xanax to help with the restlessness.  Your doctor can help determine what's best for you, based on your side effects and medical history. 

Do get a blood glucose monitor so you can be aware of changes in your blood glucose levels while you're taking dex.  Many of us have steroid-induced diabetes and require treatment for that too.

Please do some more research on the possible side effects of dex.  Some good starting places are:

• Medline Plus Drug Information
• Health Square
• Drugs.com
• Your local pharmacist, of course!