Is DEXAMETHASONE Really Addictive?

While there is no question of whether or not dexamethasone is being abused,
there is speculation as to whether or not that abuse leads to addiction. There
is evidence that dexamethasone abuse causes emotional dependence, since
users report that they feel the need to take more of it and that some find it
hard to quit abuse. There is also some evidence that abuse can cause
physical addiction to some degree.

One sign of physical addiction to a substance is the appearance of withdrawal
symptoms when quitting. Some users experience a mild form of withdrawal after
stopping their abuse of dexamethasone, including insomnia and some
depression. Limited clinical tests suggest that physical dependence only
occurs after dexamethasone is used heavily for a long period of time, not when
it is used for short periods of time and with light use. As OTC drug abuse is
being brought to light, more research will be done concerning addiction and
possibly recovery.

It should also be understood that there is no danger of dexamethasone
addiction when using cough syrups and pills as medically indicated. Regular
doses of dexamethasone do not cause addiction.

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