Dexamethasone Ophthalmic

  • Brand Name : Ozurdex
  • Drug Class : Corticosteroids, Ophthalmic
  • Medical Author : Divya Jacob, Pharm. D.
  • Medical Reviewer : Sarfaroj Khan, BHMS, PGD Health Operations
  • _eael_post_view_count : 6

What Is Dexamethasone Ophthalmic and How Does It Work?

is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, or breathing disorders.    

What Are Dosages of Dexamethasone Ophthalmic?

Adult and pediatric dosage

Ophthalmic suspension

  • 0.1% (Maxidex)

Ophthalmic solution

  • 0.1% (various generics)

Inflammatory Ocular Conditions

Adult and pediatric dosage

  • Mild disease: Instill 1-2 drops in the conjunctival sac(s) every 4-6 hours; taper frequency as symptoms subside
  • Severe disease: Instill 1-2 drops in the conjunctival sac(s); may use hourly, and then tapered to discontinue as the inflammation subsides

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows: 

  • See “Dosages”

What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Dexamethasone Ophthalmic?

Common side effects of Dexamethasone Ophthalmic include:

  • stomach upset,
  • headache, 
  • dizziness,
  • menstrual changes, 
  • trouble sleeping, 
  • increased appetite, or
  • weight gain.

Serious side effects of Dexamethasone Ophthalmic include:

  • signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), 
  • bone/joint pain, 
  • increased thirst/urination, 
  • fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, 
  • eye pain/pressure,
  • vision problems,
  • heartburn
  • black stools, 
  • vomit that looks like coffee grounds,
  • puffy face,
  • swelling of the ankles/feet,
  • stomach/abdominal pain,
  • pain/redness/swelling of arms/legs, 
  • tiredness,
  • mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings, agitation),
  • unusual hair/skin growth, 
  • muscle pain/cramps, 
  • weakness, 
  • easy bruising/bleeding,
  • slow wound healing, 
  • thinning skin, and
  • seizures

Rare side effects of Dexamethasone Ophthalmic include:

  • none 

Seek medical care or call 911 at once if you have the following serious side effects:

  • Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors;
  • Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights;
  • Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats; fluttering in your chest; shortness of breath; and sudden dizziness, lightheartedness, or passing out.

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur as a result of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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