Decadron (Dexamethasone):  A potent synthetic glucocorticoid hormone and in the same class of hormones as the naturally produced cortisol.  It is an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant.  Its potency is about 40 times that of hydrocortisone (another glucocorticoid). In patients with brain tumors (primary or metastatic) and brain edema (swelling), dexamethasone is often used to counteract the swelling. Its side effects include elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia), hypertension, increased risk of infections and poor wound healing.