Available as an injectable solution (2 or 4 mg/ml) for IM or IV administration. Anti-inflammatory that may be useful in debili- tated animals. Dexamethasone is 20 times more active as an anti-inflammatory than prednisolone. Higher dose is used for treatment of shock and to reduce the effects of gram-negative endotoxemia that may occur when patients with bacteremia are treated with antibiotics. Higher dose may be immunosuppressive and a lower dose should be used for repeated therapy. Induces rapid glucocorticoid and anti-inflammatory response. May be use- ful as an adjunct therapy (with iodine) for treating goiter in budgerigars.
Has been associated with congenital deformities when adminis- tered to pregnant mammals. May cause increased levels of liver enzymes, polydipsia, polyuria and diarrhea. AST and ALT activi- ties may increase to three times normal values within 36 hours of IM administration. Doses of three drops/gallon of water were found to be immunosuppressive in pigeons.