
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate is a water-soluble, synthetic corticosteroid ester of dexamethasone, widely used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is the sodium phosphate ester form, enabling rapid dissolution and absorption for injectable and topical pharmaceutical formulations. This compound is extensively used in medical treatments to reduce inflammation, allergic reactions, and immune system overactivity. Its efficacy in modulating gene expression makes it valuable in treating a range of conditions including autoimmune diseases, allergic reactions, and certain cancers. Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate is prized for its fast onset of action, high potency, and versatility in various dosage forms such as injections, ophthalmic solutions, and topical preparations.
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Uses
- Â Primary UsesÂ
- Pharmaceuticals – Injectable Preparations
- Used as an injectable corticosteroid for rapid anti-inflammatory effects in conditions such as arthritis, asthma, allergic reactions, and shock.
- Administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or intra-articularly depending on clinical needs.
- Employed in emergency medicine for management of severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.
- Topical Formulations
- Incorporated in creams, ointments, and lotions for treatment of skin inflammation, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
- Provides localized immunosuppressive effects to reduce redness, itching, and swelling.
- Ophthalmic Preparations
- Used in eye drops and ointments to treat ocular inflammatory conditions such as uveitis, conjunctivitis, and post-operative inflammation.
- Other Therapeutic Uses
- Used in inhalers and nebulizers for respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Applied as part of chemotherapy protocols to reduce nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions induced by anticancer drugs.
- Employed in treatment of autoimmune disorders including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Veterinary Medicine
- Used to manage inflammation and allergic conditions in animals.
- Diagnostic and Research
Utilized in research to study glucocorticoid receptor activity and gene regulation mechanisms.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Disodium (11β)-9-Fluoro-11,17,21-trihydroxy-16-methylpregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione 21-phosphate
- Common/Trade Name: Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate
- CAS Number: 2392-39-4
- HS Code: 2937.29.90
- Molecular Formula: C22H28FNa2O8P
- Synonyms:
- Dexamethasone 21-phosphate disodium salt
- Dexamethasone phosphate
- Dexamethasone sodium salt phosphate
- DSP
- Dexamethasone phosphate ester
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White or almost white crystalline powder
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water; soluble in ethanol
- Melting Point: Approximately 250–260°C (decomposes)
- pH (1% aqueous solution): ~7.5–8.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Stability: Stable under recommended storage; sensitive to light and moisture
- Molecular Weight: 516.4 g/mol
- Appearance: White to off-white powder
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous under normal pharmaceutical handling; handle as pharmaceutical-grade substance
- Toxicity: Low toxicity when used appropriately; overdose may cause corticosteroid-related side effects
- Irritation: May cause mild skin and eye irritation; avoid inhalation of dust
- Contraindications: Use with caution in infections, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, and other corticosteroid-sensitive conditions
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture (preferably 2–8°C for bulk API)
- Container Type: Airtight, light-resistant containers such as amber glass or HDPE bottles
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use PPE to avoid dust inhalation and skin/eye contact; handle in well-ventilated areas
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status: Approved pharmaceutical active ingredient by FDA, EMA, and other global regulatory bodies
- Pharmacopoeia Standards: USP, EP, JP grades available
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous material for transport when packaged per regulations
- Controlled Substance: Not a controlled substance, but prescription-only for pharmaceutical formulations
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Not applicable as pharmaceutical substance; disposal requires compliance with pharmaceutical waste guidelines
- Ecotoxicity: Potential environmental impact if improperly disposed; minimize release into water systems
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: No evidence of carcinogenicity or mutagenicity
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required:
- Dust mask or respirator (to avoid inhalation of powder)
- Safety goggles
- Gloves (nitrile or latex)
- Lab coat or protective clothing
- Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid dust generation and inhalation
- Use in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods
- Avoid contact with eyes and skin
- Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly closed and protected from light and moisture
- Store separately from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties or irritation persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek urgent medical care
- Ingestion: Seek immediate medical attention; corticosteroid overdose symptoms require monitoring
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible under fire conditions; dust may pose explosion risk in confined spaces
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Avoid inhalation of smoke and decomposition products
- Decomposition Products: May emit toxic fumes including carbon oxides, phosphorus oxides, and fluoride-containing compounds