Monday, September 15, 2008

What are the side effects of dexamethasone (taken for multiple myeloma)? Can it cause rapid heartbeats?

Dexamethasone can certainly cause rapid heartbeats. It can also cause fluid retention, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, increased appetite, changes in taste sensation, insomnia , mood swings and an acne-type rash.

Many people experience increased energy on the days that they take the dexamethasone but feel fatigued for a few days after stopping the medicine. Dexamethasone can irritate the lining of the stomach, so it should always be taken with food. A type of medicine called a proton pump inhibitor is generally given with dexamethasone to prevent stomach ulcers.

Dexamethasone can also suppress fevers, so it is important to watch for other signs of infection.

Learn more in the Everyday Health Multiple Myeloma Center.