From the Research
Dexamethasone was invented by Philip Showalter Hench, Edward Calvin Kendall, and Tadeus Reichstein, who were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1950 for their work on adrenal cortex hormones. The specific development of dexamethasone occurred in the late 1950s, with its introduction to medical practice in 1958 1. Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, approximately 25 times more potent than cortisol (the body's natural glucocorticoid) 2. It works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in cells, which then alters gene expression to reduce inflammation. This medication is widely used to treat various conditions including allergic reactions, certain skin diseases, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and more recently gained prominence for its use in treating severe COVID-19.
Key Points
- Dexamethasone has a high potency and relatively long duration of action compared to earlier corticosteroids 3
- It has minimal mineralocorticoid effects, making it a preferred choice for certain conditions 1
- The development of dexamethasone was a significant advancement in steroid therapy, with its introduction to medical practice in 1958 1
- Dexamethasone is used to treat various conditions, including allergic reactions, skin diseases, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis 2, 4
- Recent studies have shown that dexamethasone is a viable alternative to prednisone for acute asthma exacerbations in children, with improved compliance and reduced vomiting 5