dexamethasone

American  

[dek-suh-meth-uh-sohn, -zohn] / ˌdɛk səˈmɛθ əˌsoʊn, -ˌzoʊn /

noun

Pharmacology.

1. a crystalline, water-soluble steroid, C 22 H 29 FO 5 , used in the treatment of certain allergic or inflammatory conditions, as rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma, or dermatosis.

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Etymology

Origin of dexamethasone

First recorded in 1955–60; perhaps Dexa(myl) + meth(yl) + -a- (of uncertain origin) + (corti)sone

Example Sentences

After confirming eligibility, participants underwent a dexamethasone suppression test.

From Science Daily • Mar. 30, 2026

The FDA approved Blenrep for multiple myeloma in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, but only for later-stage patients.

From Barron's • Oct. 24, 2025

Nice said the drug cost £4,320 for a 1,800mg per 15ml vial and, along with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone, was recommended as an option for treating newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis in adults.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2024

It's imperative that further research be carried out to see whether the keto diet has a similar effect in humans — and crucially, whether treatment with dexamethasone delays the onset of cachexia in humans, too.

From Salon • Jun. 21, 2023

Later I learned from Pete Athans that shortly after he had injected Beck with dexamethasone, the Texan experienced an astonishing recovery.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer