CompoundList
Sign in
Hormones and steroids

Dexamethasone

Also known as Decadron, Aeroseb-Dex, Cortisumman

CAS 50-02-2Formula C22H29FO5Molar mass 392.47 g/molEC 200-003-9
GHS signal word: Danger. Pictograms: Harmful or irritant, Serious health hazard, Hazardous to the environment 165 suppliers listed Drug substance
Get quotes Compare 165 suppliers
Dexamethasone chemical structure, C22H29FO5, CAS 50-02-2
2D chemical structure

Key facts

What buyers check first

All properties
Appearance
Crystals from ether
Melting point
262 to 264
Solubility
Crystals, sol in water, max absorption (ethanol): 238-239 nm (e= 14,000), specific optic…
HS code
293722
Category
Hormones and steroids
Illustrative photo, 25 kg white woven sacks of powder on a pallet in a warehouse
Typical packagingIllustrative packaging image, not the actual product

What is Dexamethasone?

Plain description, key identifiers and synonyms

Dexamethasone is a fluorinated steroid that is 9-fluoropregna-1,4-diene substituted by hydroxy groups at positions 11, 17 and 21, a methyl group at position 16 and oxo groups at positions 3 and 20. It is a synthetic member of the class of glucocorticoids. It has a role as an anti-inflammatory drug, an antineoplastic agent, a xenobiotic, an immunosuppressive agent, an adrenergic agent, an antiemetic and an environmental contaminant. It is a glucocorticoid, a 17alpha-hydroxy steroid, a 21-hydroxy steroid, an 11beta-hydroxy steroid, a 20-oxo steroid, a fluorinated steroid and a 3-oxo-Delta(1),Delta(4)-steroid. It derives from a hydride of a pregnane.

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid medication.

Identifiers

Registry numbers, names and line notations, tap to copy

IUPAC name
(8S,9R,10S,11S,13S,14S,16R,17R)-9-fluoro-11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13,16-trimethyl-6,7,8,11,12,14,15,16-octahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one
CAS number
50-02-2 CAS number cross-checkedOther or deprecated CAS: 1050677-47-8, 23495-06-9
EC number
200-003-9
Molecular formula
C22H29FO5
UNII
7S5I7G3JQL
MDL number
MFCD00064136
InChIKey
UREBDLICKHMUKA-CXSFZGCWSA-N
InChI
InChI=1S/C22H29FO5/c1-12-8-16-15-5-4-13-9-14(25)6-7-19(13,2)21(15,23)17(26)10-20(16,3)22(12,28)18(27)11-24/h6-7,9,12,15-17,24,26,28H,4-5,8,10-11H2,1-3H3/t12-,15+,16+,17+,19+,20+,21+,22+/m1/s1
Canonical SMILES
CC1CC2C3CCC4=CC(=O)C=CC4(C)C3(F)C(O)CC2(C)C1(O)C(=O)CO
Isomeric SMILES
C[C@@H]1C[C@H]2[C@@H]3CCC4=CC(=O)C=C[C@@]4([C@]3([C@H](C[C@@]2([C@]1(C(=O)CO)O)C)O)F)C

Synonyms

  • Decadron
  • Aeroseb-Dex
  • Cortisumman
  • Calonat
  • Decaderm
  • Dexacortal
  • Dexacortin
  • Prednisolone F
  • Fluormethylprednisolone
  • Deltafluorene
  • Hexadecadrol
  • Superprednol
  • Visumetazone
  • Aphtasolon
  • Decasone
  • Decaspray
  • Dekacort
  • Desadrene
  • Desameton
  • Dexadeltone
  • Dexalona
  • Dexameth
  • Dexapolcort
  • Fortecortin
  • Gammacorten
Show all 39 synonyms
  • Millicorten
  • Auxiron
  • Corsone
  • Decalix
  • Dexason
  • Dexone
  • Dexa-Cortidelt
  • Dexa-Scheroson
  • Dexa-sine
  • Dergramin
  • Desamethasone
  • Deseronil
  • Dexafarma
  • Mediamethasone

Physical and chemical properties

Measured values and descriptors computed from the structure

Physical and chemical properties

Measured values, check the supplier specification for your grade

Appearance
Crystals from etherexp.
Melting point
262 to 264exp.
Solubility
Crystals, sol in water, max absorption (ethanol): 238-239 nm (e= 14,000), specific optical rotation: +57 deg/D (water), mp 233-235 °C, specific optical rotation: +74 +- 4 deg at 25 °C/D (water- and alc-free basis, 10 mg/mL) /21-phosphate…exp.

Values vary by grade. Ask suppliers for the COA or TDS of the batch you buy.

Computed descriptors

Calculated from the structure, useful for screening and formulation

Molecular weight
392.47 g/molcalc.
Exact mass
392.1999 Dacalc.
LogP (octanol/water)
1.9calc.
Topological polar surface area
94.83 Ųcalc.
Hydrogen bond donors
3calc.
Hydrogen bond acceptors
5calc.
Rotatable bonds
2calc.
Heavy atoms
28calc.
Rings
4calc.
Aromatic rings
0calc.
Fraction sp3 carbons
0.73calc.
Formal charge
0calc.
Stereocentres
8calc.
Lipinski rule of five
Passes (0 violations)calc.

Calculated for screening. Confirm critical figures with the supplier.

Murcko scaffold

The ring system that remains when every side chain is removed

Murcko scaffold of this chemical, O=C1C=CC2C(=C1)CCC1C3CCCC3CCC21

O=C1C=CC2C(=C1)CCC1C3CCCC3CCC21

4 rings, 18 atoms.

956 other chemicals share this scaffold

Safety and hazards

GHS classification summary, not a safety data sheet

GHS signal word
Danger
GHS07: Harmful or irritant
Harmful or irritant
GHS08: Serious health hazard
Serious health hazard
GHS09: Hazardous to the environment
Hazardous to the environment

Hazard statements

  • H315Causes skin irritation.
  • H317May cause an allergic skin reaction.
  • H319Causes serious eye irritation.
  • H334May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled.
  • H335May cause respiratory irritation.
  • H360May damage fertility or the unborn child.
  • H360DMay damage the unborn child.
  • H373May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
  • H410Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
Precautionary statements (27)
  • P203Obtain, read and follow all safety instructions before use.
  • P233Keep container tightly closed.
  • P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray.
  • P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray.
  • P264Wash skin thoroughly after handling.
  • P264 + P265Wash skin thoroughly after handling. Do not touch eyes.
  • P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
  • P272Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace.
  • P273Avoid release to the environment.
  • P280Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, eye protection and face protection.
  • P284In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection.
  • P302 + P352If on skin: Wash with plenty of water.
  • P304 + P340If inhaled: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
  • P305 + P351 + P338If in eyes: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
  • P318If exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
  • P319Get medical help if you feel unwell.
  • P321Specific treatment (see supplemental first aid instructions on the label).
  • P332 + P317If skin irritation occurs: Get medical help.
  • P333 + P317If skin irritation or rash occurs: Get medical help.
  • P337 + P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical help.
  • P342 + P316If experiencing respiratory symptoms: Get emergency medical help immediately.
  • P362 + P364Take off contaminated clothing. And wash it before reuse.
  • P391Collect spillage.
  • P403Store in a well-ventilated place.
  • P403 + P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
  • P405Store locked up.
  • P501Dispose of contents and container in accordance with local regulations.

GHS classification summary, not a safety data sheet (SDS). Classifications can differ by supplier, grade and concentration. Always check the supplier's SDS.

Full safety data and first aid

Dexamethasone suppliers

Sponsored listings first, then the documented ranking: membership, verification, replies, completeness, freshness and ratings

All 165 suppliers
30 of 30 offers

Suppliers marked Unclaimed profile have not claimed their profile yet. They are not verified by CompoundList, their offers are price on request and details may have changed, so please confirm them with the supplier. Company representatives can claim a profile with a business email on the company's own website domain. Our team verifies each claim and sends the result by email.

Where suppliers are based

165 suppliers in 29 countries

Send one request to many suppliers

Choose up to 10 suppliers or let us match your request. Compare quotes side by side, free.

Choose suppliersPost a request

Dexamethasone price

Indicative price range per kg from live supplier offers

No published prices right now

Suppliers quote this chemical on request. Send one free request and compare quotes side by side.

Get latest price

Uses and applications

What the substance is used for, by industry and function

Marketed as Azium powder for cattle and horses and as Azium solution for intramuscular and intravenous administration for treating primary bovine ketosis, and as an anti-inflammatory agent in cattle, horses, dogs, and cats. Dexamethasone is also marketed in combination with the diuretic trichlormethiazide as Naquasone for the treatment of physiological parturient udder edema in cattle.

Useful in treatment of leukemias and lymphomas of the central nervous system.

Supportive therapy for cattle and horse management or inflammatory conditions such as acute arthritic lameness, and for various stress conditions where corticosteroids are required while the animal is being treated for a specific condition. (Azium Powder).

Therapeutic category: Glucocorticoid, anti-inflammatory. Diagnostic aid (Cushing's Syndrome, depression).

Use classes: Systemic hormonal preparations, Pharmaceuticals, Animal Drugs.

Pharmacological actions

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antiemetics
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal
  • Glucocorticoids

Roles

  • adrenergic agent
  • analgesic
  • anti-allergic agent
  • anti-anaemic agent
  • anti-asthmatic agent
  • anti-inflammatory agent
  • anti-inflammatory drug
  • anti-ulcer drug
  • antiemetic
  • antifibrotic agent
  • antiglaucoma drug
  • antihypertensive agent
  • antiinfective agent
  • antineoplastic agent
  • antiparasitic agent
  • antipsoriatic
  • antirheumatic drug
  • cardiovascular drug
  • dermatologic drug
  • gastrointestinal drug
  • immunosuppressive agent
  • nasal decongestant
  • ophthalmology drug
  • vulnerary

Pharmacology

Dexamethasone is a Corticosteroid. The mechanism of action of dexamethasone is as a Corticosteroid Hormone Receptor Agonist.

How it is made

Preparation: Muller et al., US 3007923 (1961 to Lab Franc Chimiother), Arth et al., DE 1113690 (1961 to Merck & Co.)

Regulatory status

Inventories, regulations and trade controls that list this substance

Health and food

  • Active ingredient in FDA approved drug labels

United States

  • TSCA inventory (USA)
    Status: Active in US commerce

HS code and trade data

Customs classification and reported world trade statistics

Global trade

World import and export statistics for the HS code Dexamethasone is traded under.

HS 2937.22Indicative HS code

Halogenated derivatives of corticosteroidal hormones

World exports in 2024
$1.65B
−29.3% vs 2023, imports $1.67B
2019 to 2024
Top exporters
  1. United Kingdom69.1%
  2. Italy7.8%
  3. Singapore5.6%
Top importers
  1. United States64.5%
  2. Spain5.1%
  3. United Kingdom3.7%
Reported customs values in USD, not prices.Full trade data

The HS code shown for Dexamethasone is indicative (it was assigned by structure rules). Confirm the classification with your customs broker before shipping.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Dexamethasone, based on the data on this page

What is Dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is a fluorinated steroid that is 9-fluoropregna-1,4-diene substituted by hydroxy groups at positions 11, 17 and 21, a methyl group at position 16 and oxo groups at positions 3 and 20. It is a synthetic member of the class of glucocorticoids.

What is the CAS number of Dexamethasone?

The CAS registry number of Dexamethasone is 50-02-2. Other or deprecated CAS numbers: 1050677-47-8, 23495-06-9.

What is the molecular formula and weight of Dexamethasone?

The molecular formula of Dexamethasone is C22H29FO5 and its molar mass is 392.47 g/mol.

What is Dexamethasone used for?

Marketed as Azium powder for cattle and horses and as Azium solution for intramuscular and intravenous administration for treating primary bovine ketosis, and as an anti-inflammatory agent in cattle, horses, dogs, and cats.

Is Dexamethasone hazardous?

Dexamethasone carries the GHS signal word "Danger". Main hazards: causes skin irritation, may cause an allergic skin reaction, causes serious eye irritation. This summary is not an SDS, always read the supplier safety data sheet.

What is the HS code of Dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is usually classified under HS code 293722 (Halogenated derivatives of corticosteroidal hormones). This is indicative, confirm it with your customs broker before shipping.

Where can I buy Dexamethasone?

CompoundList lists 165 suppliers of Dexamethasone in China, India, United States, Germany and 25 more. Send one free request to get and compare quotes. Your contact details stay private until you accept a quote.

Where can I buy Dexamethasone in India?

35 suppliers in India list Dexamethasone on CompoundList. Filter the suppliers list by country and send a request to compare prices, grades and delivery times.

What is the price of Dexamethasone?

Suppliers quote Dexamethasone on request because prices depend on grade, purity, quantity and destination. A free request on CompoundList gets you several quotes to compare.

Guides for buyers

Practical guides that help when you source, ship or handle Dexamethasone

Get quotes for Dexamethasone

Post one free request with your grade, quantity and destination. Matching suppliers send quotes you can compare side by side.
Post a request Sell Dexamethasone
Data last updated 7 Oct 2026. Details may have changed, please confirm them with the supplier. Report an error on this page
Embed this structure on your websiteShow code

Paste this code into your page to show the 2D structure of Dexamethasone with a 3D view, its CAS number where known and a link back to this page. Free to use with the link kept.

<iframe src="https://www.compoundlist.com/embed/structure/dexamethasone-50-02-2" title="Dexamethasone structure on CompoundList" width="360" height="420" style="border:1px solid #E7E2DA;border-radius:12px;max-width:100%" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe>
Preview the embed

Explore more in Hormones and steroids or HS code 293722

165 suppliers
Free quotes, contact stays private
Get quotes