Pharmacotherapeutic group: corticosteroids for systemic use, plain, glucocorticoids, dexamethasone.
ATCvet code: QH02AB02
Pharmacodynamic properties
Dexamethasone is a long-acting glucocorticosteroid; its potency is about 25 times greater than the short-acting substances, such as hydrocortisone. Glucocorticoids play a role in carbohydrate-, protein- and fat metabolism, and have an antiphlogistic and immunosuppressive effect. The main effect of glucocorticosteroids is the ability of these products to suppress inflammatory reactions, independent of the cause of the inflammation (infectious, allergic, chemical, mechanical). Thanks to the ability to inhibit phospholipase enzymes in the cell membranes, the formation of prostaglandins and leukotrienes is prevented.
Pharmacokinetic properties
Following oral administration dexamethasone is well absorbed in dogs and cats. In plasma, dexamethasone is present in free form and bound to plasma proteins. In the liver, corticosteroids like dexamethasone are metabolised (glucuronidated and sulfated), therefore only a small amount of the active substance can be traced in the urine.