dexamethasone ophthalmic Health Article

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the drops or ointment have been ingested, call an emergency center for advice.

What should I avoid while using dexamethasone ophthalmic?

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dexamethasone ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment with dexamethasone ophthalmic.

What are the possible side effects of dexamethasone ophthalmic?

Serious side effects are not expected with this medication. Rarely, an increase in the pressure inside of the eye, formation of cataracts, or a perforation of the cornea has been reported. Talk to your doctor about any possible side effects.

More commonly, some burning, stinging, irritation, itching, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light may occur. Continue to use dexamethasone ophthalmic and talk to your doctor about any side effects that you experience.

What other drugs will affect dexamethasone ophthalmic?

Do not use other eyedrops or eye medications during treatment with dexamethasone ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking an oral steroid medication such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others), methylprednisolone (Medrol), hydrocortisone (Cortef, Hydrocortone), and others.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with dexamethasone ophthalmic. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about dexamethasone ophthalmic written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Dexamethasone is available with a prescription under several brand and generic names. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• AK-Dex 0.1% solution

• AK-Dex 0.05% ointment

• Decadron Phosphate 0.1% solution

• Decadron Phosphate 0.05% ointment

• Maxidex 0.1% suspension

• Maxidex 0.05% ointment

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.