Dexamethasone is a potent corticosteroid used for the treatment of inflammatory/hypersensitivity/allergic conditions including acute airway obstruction, insect stings, and head trauma. Dexamethasone relieves inflammation and decreases swelling in the brain, spine, or bone. This makes dexamethasone beneficial for birds with tumors, because it can decrease the pressure of the tumor on nerve endings and relieve pain or other symptoms caused by the pressing tumor.
Note: Dexamethasone use may result in delayed wound healing and increased susceptibility to infection. Use concurrent antibiotics to cover if there is a risk or pre-existing infection. Viral infections may be exacerbated.