Betamethasone sodium phosphate injection: high-dose regimen in septic shock

An intravenous bolus of betamethasone, at an approximate dosage of 3 mg/kg, was administered to 20 patients with septic shock. Treatment was repeated every four to six hours for periods ranging from 18 to 64 hours. Concomitant therapy included antibiotics in all patients and surgery in 10 patients. An additional patient underwent surgery after the conclusion of therapy. Clinical improvement was apparent within four hours after initiation of study medication in 14 (70%) patients. In the remaining six patients, improvement was observed no later than eight hours after the initial dose of the study agent. Reversal of shock was achieved in all patients, at which time treatment was discontinued. Tolerance to the study medication was excellent. No local or systemic adverse effects occurred.