| Generic name | Dexamethasone |
| Pronunciation | dek-sa-METH-a-sone |
| Brand name(s), other common name(s) | Decadron® |
| Drug type | Corticosteroid |
| How the drug is given | By mouth |
| Generic name | Hydrocortisone |
| Pronunciation | hy-droh-KOR-ti-sone |
| Brand name(s), other common name(s) | n/a |
| Drug type | Corticosteroid |
| How the drug is given | Intravenously (IV) or by intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC) injection |
| Generic name | Methylprednisolone |
| Pronunciation | MEH-thil-pred-NIS-oh-lone |
| Brand name(s), other common name(s) | Medrol® |
| Drug type | Corticosteroid |
| How the drug is given | By mouth |
| Generic name | Prednisone |
| Pronunciation | PRED-ni-sone |
| Brand name(s), other common name(s) | n/a |
| 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.