Navigating the therapeutic paradox: A case report on dexamethasone’s role in nerve regeneration and associated toxic risks in wistar rats

This manuscript presents an exploration into the dual nature of dexamethasone, a potent corticosteroid, in the context of peripheral nerve regeneration and its associated toxic risks in wistar rats.By examining the drug's efficacy in enhancing nerve repair post-injury through anti-inflammatory actions and the promotion of neurotrophic factors, alongside a significant observation of toxicity resulting in high mortality rates, we delve into the therapeutic paradox that dexamethasone represents.Conducted in a controlled experimental setup, this study utilised albino wistar rats to assess the regenerative potential and adverse effects of dexamethasone, administered intraperitoneally at a dosage of 2 mg/kg body weight daily for ten consecutive days.Despite promising indications of its role in nerve regeneration, over 50% of the rats succumbed, underscoring a severe adverse reaction.This manuscript discusses the possible causes of this toxicity, including dosage sensitivity, drug accumulation, species-specific responses, off-target effects, immune system suppression, adrenal suppression, and apoptosis induction, thereby highlighting the complex challenge of optimising dexamethasone's therapeutic use while mitigating its risks.The findings stress the need for meticulous dosage considerations, understanding interspecies differences in drug metabolism, and further investigation into the drug's pharmacokinetics and biological impacts.