Xasten is a brand of dexamethasone marketed in Nigeria by Vixa Pharmaceutical. This medication is a corticosteroid hormone (glucocorticoid). It decreases your body’s natural defensive response and reduces symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions.
Xasten is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood/hormone/immune system disorders, allergic reactions, certain skin and eye conditions, breathing problems, certain bowel disorders, and certain cancers. It is also used as a test for an adrenal gland disorder (Cushing’s syndrome).
How Xasten works
Xasten is a type of corticosteroid medication that works by mimicking the effects of naturally occurring hormones in the body called glucocorticoids. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including metabolism, inflammation, and immune system function.
When Xasten is taken orally it is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. Once it reaches its target cells, it binds to glucocorticoid receptors located in the cytoplasm of the cell. This binding initiates a cascade of molecular events that ultimately lead to changes in gene expression, protein synthesis, and metabolism.
One of the primary effects of Xasten is to reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system’s response. This is accomplished by inhibiting the production and release of various inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes. As a result, Xasten is commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and allergies.
How to use Xasten
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. Take with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. If you are using the liquid form of the medication, use a medication-measuring device to carefully measure the prescribed dose. Do not use a household spoon.
If you take this medication once daily, take it in the morning before 9 AM. If you are taking this medication every other day or on another schedule besides a daily one, it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may attempt to reduce your dose slowly from time to time to minimize side effects.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Follow the dosing schedule carefully, and take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
What are the side effects of Xasten Tablet?
Side effects of Xasten include; Stomach upset, headache, dizziness, menstrual changes, trouble sleeping, increased appetite, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), bone/joint pain, increased thirst/urination, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, eye pain/pressure, vision problems, heartburn, puffy face, swelling of the ankles/feet, symptoms of stomach/intestinal bleeding (such as stomach/abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds), pain/redness/swelling of arms/legs, tiredness, mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings, agitation), unusual hair/skin growth, muscle pain/cramps, weakness, easy bruising/bleeding, slow wound healing, thinning skin, seizures. READ : Does Xasten (Dexamethasone) Prevent pregnancy?
Important warnings
- Allergic reaction: Xasten may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases. If you have trouble breathing, a rash, or itchy skin, or notice swelling of your arms, feet, or tongue, call your doctor immediately. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.
- Heart damage: If you’ve recently had a heart attack, you may be at increased risk for further heart damage from this drug. Before starting this drug, be sure your doctor knows you’ve had a heart attack.
- Infection: Xasten can cover up or worsen certain infections. In addition, infections can develop during treatment. Don’t use this drug if you have fungal infections, or a history of parasite infections or tuberculosis. Tell your doctor about any past illnesses or infections.
- Eye problems: Using Xasten for long periods can lead to eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma. The drug may also cause damage to the optic nerves, or fungal or viral eye infections.
- Measles or chickenpox: Tell your doctor if you haven’t had chickenpox or measles, or if you haven’t had the vaccines to prevent them. You could have more serious versions of these illnesses if you have them while taking Xasten.
Drugs to Avoid While Using Xasten
As with all medications, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions when taking Xasten.
Here are some of the drug interactions to be aware of when taking Xasten:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Xasten may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when taken with NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
- Blood thinners: Xasten may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin or heparin.
- Antidiabetic medications: Xasten may increase blood sugar levels and may require an adjustment of antidiabetic medications such as insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents.
- Vaccines: Xasten may weaken the immune system and reduce the effectiveness of vaccines. It is recommended to avoid live vaccines while taking Xasten.
- Estrogen-containing medications: Xasten may decrease the effectiveness of estrogen-containing medications such as hormonal contraceptives.
- Anticonvulsants: Xasten may decrease the effectiveness of anticonvulsant medications such as phenytoin and carbamazepine.
- Certain antibiotics: Xasten may decrease the effectiveness of antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin.
- Antifungal medications: Xasten may increase the risk of side effects when taken with antifungal medications such as ketoconazole and itraconazole.
It is important to always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Xasten to prevent any potential drug interactions. SEE: Should I Use Xasten Tablet for Weight Gain
