DecadronDex
How it works
Potent anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic. Used as premedication before chemo to reduce infusion reactions and nausea.
Prophylactic dex is standard on chemo days. The post-pulse symptom window — most commonly D3-D5 — is well documented (Vardy 2006: 45% insomnia, 27% agitation, 27% dyspepsia). Normalize it; surface a mood check-in.
Dosing
Typical doses
- 8 mg on chemo day (BD)
- 4 mg BD D1–D3
Schedule
- D1–D2 of cycle (tapered by D3)cycle_linked
Side Effects
- •Insomnia (if given in evening)
- •Increased appetite, mood elevation
- •Hyperglycemia (especially in diabetics)
- •Mild gastric upset
- Steroid crash (D3–D5): depression, tearfulness, irritability
- Long-term use: osteoporosis, immunosuppression, muscle wasting
Monitoring
- Give in morning (08:00) to avoid evening insomnia
- Taper rather than stop abruptly (adrenal suppression risk)