Children with leukemia or non-Hodgkin lymphoma receive this drug in high doses; as it kills cancer cells, inhibits inflammation and enhances the effects of certain chemotherapy. Children with brain tumors are sometimes given dexamethasone for short periods to relieve pressure on the brain.
Corticosteroids have physical side effects such as fluid retention, enormous appetite, weight gain, acne, diabetes and decreased response to infections.
But they can also cause behavioral changes. Children who are given dexamethasone, in particular, can quickly become unbalanced and less in control of themselves. They may experience mood swings, from very happy to depressed. They may also have trouble sleeping and become obsessed with food.
In the brochure Nutritional advice on corticosteroids you will find advice on how to keep your child's weight in check.
The brochure Dexamethasone: tips for parents gives tips to get through the dexa period better as a family.
The brochure Reduce behavioral changes caused by dexamethasone explains two drinks that can reduce these behavioral changes.
Corticosteroids have physical side effects such as fluid retention, enormous appetite, weight gain, acne, diabetes and decreased response to infections.
But they can also cause behavioral changes. Children who are given dexamethasone, in particular, can quickly become unbalanced and less in control of themselves. They may experience mood swings, from very happy to depressed. They may also have trouble sleeping and become obsessed with food.
Brochure
(Please note these brochures are only available in Dutch)In the brochure Nutritional advice on corticosteroids you will find advice on how to keep your child's weight in check.
The brochure Dexamethasone: tips for parents gives tips to get through the dexa period better as a family.
The brochure Reduce behavioral changes caused by dexamethasone explains two drinks that can reduce these behavioral changes.