Status: Not set
Last reviewed: Not set
Next review due: Not set
Why use
Standardises a stepwise steroid taper into a clear day-by-day dose schedule.
When to use
Use when a prescriber has specified a starting dose, a taper amount, and an interval for a dexamethasone taper.
How to use
Enter the starting dose in mg, the taper amount in mg, and the interval in days for the first row.
Optionally enter a start date to show actual dates for each step.
Click Add Taper to insert another row if the taper rate changes partway through, its dose is where the new rate begins.
Click Calculate to generate the schedule, doses shown include a tablet count breakdown using standard strengths.
Click Copy to copy the full schedule.
Pitfalls and drawbacks
Tablet counts assume standard 500microgram and 2mg dexamethasone tablet strengths. Check these match what is actually stocked or dispensed locally before using the schedule. Always confirm the schedule against the prescriber's instructions before giving to a patient.
Advice
When adding a new row to change the taper rate partway through, set its dose to the exact dose at which the new rate should begin.