Dexamethasone

/ˌdɛksəˈmɛθəsoʊn/ noun

Definition

a synthetic corticosteroid drug used to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses in medical treatment.

Etymology

From dexo- (relating to right-handed or potent isomers) plus methasone (a corticosteroid compound). Synthesized in 1958, the name reflects its chemical structure and potency compared to other steroids.

Kelly Says

Dexamethasone is roughly 30 times more potent than natural cortisol, which is why doctors use tiny doses—and it's been a critical drug in treating severe COVID-19, reducing inflammation in the lungs before it becomes deadly!

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