Abstract: A dexamethasone delivery composition includes dexamethasone disposed in a cellulosic gel, preferably a hydroxycellulose gel. Lidocaine solubilizes the dexamethasone into the gel to provide a dexamethasone composition of increased concentration and enhanced tissue penetration capability. A method for the transdermal delivery of dexamethasone includes the step of applying the dexamethasone gel composition of the invention to the tissue of a patient and applying ultrasound at the site to effect penetration of the dexamethasone.