Advice on COVID-19 and dexamethasone steroid treatment

22 Jun 2020


A new clinical trial reports that glucocorticoid, dexamethasone, is effective for treating severe COVID-19. We want to assure people that this medicine should only be taken on prescription and under the care of a doctor.

Glucocorticoids are a type of anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat a range of conditions such as allergies, asthma, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and the endocrine condition, adrenal insufficiency. Glucocorticoids can have serious side effects and should not be taken unless necessary.

Dexamethasone was reportedly only effective in COVID-19 patients on ventilators or oxygen therapy, was of no definable benefit to patients with mild symptoms, and will not prevent you from becoming infected.

If you have any concerns or queries, please contact NHS 111 or your GP.


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