Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, acts by bringing about the
glucocorticoid effects. Glucocorticoids have potent anti-inflammatory
actions, including the reduction in the number and function of various
immune cells, such as T and B lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, and
eosinophils, at sites of inflammation. Glucocorticoids decrease the
production of cytokines, chemokines, and eicosanoids and enhance the
production of macrophage migration inhibitory factor.27 Due to its therapeutic anti-inflammatory properties
dexamethasone may aid in decreasing the severity of paraquat induced
oral mucositis. We identified three main studies. The first trial
evaluated the effects of early administration of dexamethasone
(experimental) as compared to delayed administration (control). It was
noted that the experimental group, that received dexamethasone mouth
rinse at presentation and consecutively for three days showed a
significant decrease in mucosal lesions and therefore a reduction of
associated pain. 23 The other two studies combined
dexamethasone with other ingredients in order to form a compounded
preparation that substantially reduced the incidence and severity of
oral mucositis. 16 21