Dexamethasone (steroid) tablets

So sorry to hear about the mental effects, so many of the drugs we need to take have harsh side effects.

On the insomnia, I was told not to take them after lunchtime to help with the insomnia. I still had trouble sleeping ,but I did actually sleep a bit.

Maybe your oncologist will be able to prescribe sleeping pills. I took them during docetaxel but I was cautious to take them in the first few days as it was yet another drug for my body to deal with. But it was nice to know I would be getting a sleep at some point.

Hopefully your oncologist has some advice.

Hi 

I had to take these after each chemo session. I can honestly say I have never in my life been so tired and yet unable to sleep They also made my scar area swell and flush like I had been sunburnt. So glad when finished them. Take care be kind to yourself it is the medication xx

I had a bad mental reaction to this drug too. After speaking with the consultant, they halved the dose for the next chemo, and I didn't have the same issues after it. Hope they can get you sorted so you don't have the same reaction. Horrible drug

Hi, I've had similar effects following the dexamethasone.  After 1st chemo I was so wired I was scrubbing the drive at 5am and cleaning out the sheds.  Wife had to take the wheel as I was driving erratically.  2nd chemo I took sleeping pills as well and got an hour or 2 of sleep at a time.  3rd chemo last week, I took half dose of dexa and I've been a little less wired but still jittery, poor sleep and this time irritable / angry and depressed.  Didn't want to leave the house at all for a week.  I'm going to ask if I can manage without dexa for my next chemo.  I do find it helps to keep a diary of how I feel each day and the symptoms, so I can see the light at the end of the tunnel during my better days.  During dark days I've wondered whether to continue treatment, but as the days get a little brighter towards the end of each cycle I feel more able to carry on.

I take them whilst on chemotherapy and I don't sleep well  but they don't stay in system for long .make sure you rest as much as you can.  Talk to Dr they may be able to change them to alternative 

I only take the steroids on the chemo day I've done two AC so far and I don't like the way they make me feel So I don't take them on the days following chemo. I should be but I don't.