Is Dexamethasone better than Cortef?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 17-year-old daughter switched from 30 mg of Cortef daily to Dexamethasone 0.5 mg once a day. Four weeks later, noticed significant emotional and behavioral changes, as well as a notable impact on her overall well-being and ability to handle stress. She had been under the care of an endocrinologist for 16 years, but he has since retired, and this is our first time seeing a new doctor. Had her blood drawn and switched back to Cortef and stress dosed for three days. We have seen some improvements in her functioning, but she is currently under high pressure due to her junior year and being in the middle of final exams. Overall symptoms she presents include depression, daily crying, lethargy, headaches, sleep disturbances, some irrational thoughts, and occasional dizziness. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. I just read your query and from the symptoms you described it appears that your daughter is under stress due to her exams and that is causing her symptoms to be more exaggerated. You must help her by emphasizing that her health is of prime importance, and she can attempt her exams with confidence, knowing that she will sail through them. She must not stress about the exams, as it will only worsen her current situation.

I hope this helps you.

Regards