Hearing your child’s barky cough can be scary—dexamethasone is commonly used for croup and a single dose often brings noticeable relief. Using your child’s weight to guide dosing and giving it at a calm moment can make the experience smoother for everyone.
If using the liquid, shake well and measure the dose with the oral syringe that comes with the medication—this helps you feel confident about the dose. Give slowly into the cheek; offering a small sip afterwards is okay. If your clinician provided a tablet, it can be crushed and mixed in a small amount of soft food, then given right away. If your child vomits right after the dose, call your clinician for advice before repeating—often waiting and trying again later is preferred.
Gentle reminders: a single dose is usually enough for croup. Improvement often starts within a few hours and continues overnight. Keep a simple log if advised to check in with your clinician, and focus on comfort measures (cool mist, calm environment).
Seek urgent care if your child has stridor at rest, severe breathing difficulty, drooling, appears very fatigued, or if symptoms worsen despite medication.
You’re doing the right things—most children improve quickly after dexamethasone. If you’re worried at any point, please reach out.