Caring for your dog’s health means learning about different medicines your vet might use. Dexamethasone is one that comes up pretty often for things like allergies, certain infections, or autoimmune conditions.
It’s a corticosteroid. Basically, it helps by reducing swelling and calming down the immune system, which makes it handy in a lot of situations.
If your vet suggests dexamethasone, it’s good to know what it does and when it’s used. This guide shares details about dosages, uses, side effects, and which dogs shouldn’t get it.
You’ll find helpful links and charts, so you can dig deeper as you learn how dexamethasone might help keep your dog healthy and more comfortable.
What is Dexamethasone for Dogs?
Dexamethasone is a strong anti-inflammatory medicine. It’s part of the glucocorticoid family—these are hormones your dog’s adrenal glands normally make.
Vets use dexamethasone for problems like swelling, allergies, some cancers, and even stomach or breathing issues.
You might see it as a tablet, an injection, or eye drops. When a dog takes dexamethasone, it can:
- Reduce inflammation
- Lower the release of histamine and ACTH
- Raise blood sugar and liver glycogen
- Suppress the immune response
| Form | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| Tablet | Allergies, inflammation, cancers |
| Injection | Quick relief, emergencies |
| Eye Drops | Eye swelling and discomfort |
Important: Always check with your vet before giving dexamethasone. The right dose depends on your dog’s size, age, and health.
Dosage of Dexamethasone Injection for Dogs
Vets often use dexamethasone injections for inflammation and immune disorders. Usually, they give it as an intramuscular shot.
The common dosage is about 0.1 mg/kg, but your vet might adjust that. Injections usually come in 2 mg/mL or 5 mg/mL vials.
| Formulation | Typical Route | Common Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 mg/mL vial | Intramuscular | 0.1 mg/kg |
| 5 mg/mL vial | Intramuscular | 0.1–0.2 mg/kg |
Stick to your vet’s advice—dose can change based on your dog’s needs.
Reference: DEXAMETHASONE INJECTION 2 mg/mL … – DailyMed
Reference: [PDF] ASPCApro – Canine Drug Chart
Dexamethasone Injection Dosage chart for Dogs
Here’s a quick dosage chart to give you a ballpark idea based on your dog’s weight. Dosage is in milligrams (mg).
| Dog Body Weight | Dexamethasone Injection Dosage |
|---|---|
| 2 kg | 0.2–0.6 mg |
| 3 kg | 0.3–0.9 mg |
| 4 kg | 0.4–1.2 mg |
| 5 kg | 0.5–1.5 mg |
| 6 kg | 0.6–1.8 mg |
Check with your vet for the best dose for your dog. This chart is just a general guide—every dog’s situation is a bit different.
Uses of Dexamethasone in Dogs
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that vets reach for when dogs have inflammation, pain, or immune problems. You’ll see it used for arthritis, shock, inflammatory diseases, or allergies.
Common uses include:
- Reducing swelling and joint pain
- Treating autoimmune issues
- Managing emergency shock
- Easing symptoms of skin and GI diseases
Want more info? Check out Wag! or GoodRx.
Side effects of Dexamethasone in Dogs
When your dog gets dexamethasone, you might notice side effects like:
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Weight gain
- Muscle weakness
- Restlessness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Itchiness or other allergic reactions
- Metabolic changes, including adrenal suppression
- Risk of stomach ulcers
- Possible drug interactions
If you spot any weird symptoms, call your vet. Better safe than sorry.
Which Dogs Should Not Take Dexamethasone?
Some dogs really shouldn’t have dexamethasone unless your vet gives the green light. It’s not for dogs with:
- Kidney or heart issues
- Osteoporosis
- Known allergies to the medicine
- Diabetes
- Fungal or bacterial infections
- Glaucoma
- Weakened immune systems
- Pregnant dogs
- Severely ill or very old dogs
Always double-check with your vet before starting this medication.
Learn more about dexamethasone for dogs – GoodRx
Common Brand Name of Dexamethasone
You might spot dexamethasone under names like Azium®, Pet-Derm®, Dexameth-a-Vet®, and Dex-a-Vet®. These products are for dogs and show up in a few different forms.
Dexamethasone isn’t the same as prednisolone, but both help with inflammation or immune system problems.
| Brand Name | Main Ingredient |
|---|---|
| Azium® | Dexamethasone |
| Pet-Derm® | Dexamethasone |
| Dexameth-a-Vet® | Dexamethasone sodium phosphate |
| Dex-a-Vet® | Dexamethasone |
