What is Dexamethasone ophthalmic?
The steroid Dexamethasone Ophthalmic is used for treating eye inflammation due to allergies, herpes (herpes zoster), severe acne (iritis, uveitis), eye injuries, radiation, chemical burns, or other conditions. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of dexamethasone ophthalmic.
Side effects of Dexamethasone ophthalmic
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue.
Dexamethasone can cause severe side effects. If you experience:
- Tunnel vision, or blurred vision, is a term used to describe this condition.
- Eye pain
- If you notice many surrounding lights,
Dexamethasone can cause a number of side effects.
- Eye irritation.
There may be other side effects. Need advice about any adverse side effects? Speak with your healthcare provider. Report side effects by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Dexamethasone should be avoided if you are suffering from an infection of the eye, including herpes simplex.
Before you take this drug
Dexamethasone should be avoided if you are allergic or have an infection in your eyes (such as herpes).
If you've ever:
- Glaucoma;
Dexamethasone Long-term ophthalmic use may cause harm to an unborn child. Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or plans for conception. Breast-feeding may be unsafe while taking this medication. You should consult your physician about possible risks. Dexamethasone ophthalmic should not be used by those younger than 18.
How to take Dexamethasone ophthalmic?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all the directions. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Before each use, shake the eyedrops well. Before using eye drops, wash your hands. Create a pocket by tilting your head slightly back and pulling down the lower eyelid. Squeeze a few drops into the pocket by holding the dropper just above your eye. Close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes before opening them again. Only use the prescribed number of drops. Avoid touching the eyedropper tip or placing it on the eye. If the dropper is contaminated, it can cause serious eye problems. Use only when wearing hard contact lenses. Do not use the medication if you are wearing soft contact lenses. You may require frequent eye pressure tests if you are using dexamethasone for longer than 10 consecutive days. Keep away from heat and moisture. Store at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. When not in use, keep the bottle closed tightly. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication. Following your physician's advice when it comes to decreasing your dose is highly advised.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for the next dose, skip the dose that was missed. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of dexamethasone are not dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medicine, seek emergency medical care or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Dexamethasone should not be shared with anyone else, even if the other person has similar symptoms.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect the medicine used on your eyes. Many drugs interact. Inform your health care providers of all the medicines that you take, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbs.
