Dexamethasone

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Husband has just weaned off dexamethasone after 7 months, he has brain tumour (gbm) which was operated on in April and has since had the usual radiotherapy/chemo treatment. He has been feeling sick and has no appetite and it has been 4 days since the last dexamethasone tablet....is this a normal side effect. Is there anything I should be watching for?

Many thanks

  • Hi ,

    Welcome to our online community and thanks for posting your question. I hope you are finding the brain cancer and GMB forum helpful and supportive. 

    It is important weaning off steroids is done slowly and under the direct care of the medical team. If stopped too quickly, or if your body is finding it difficult to adjust it can cause adrenal insufficiency.

    • Feeling extremely tired
    • Feeling and/or being sick
    • Dizziness
    • Loss of appetite and weight loss.

    If your partner is still experiencing these symptoms, I would encourage you to get in touch with his specialist nurse, consultant or GP today to have them review him and confirm if they feel these symptoms are within the normal limits or if his medicines need to be adjusted.

    I hope this helps. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you need any further information or support.

      

    Best wishes, 

    Amy C, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

    Ref: AC/DC