Dexamethasone Eye Drops

What is this medication?

DEXAMETHASONE (dex a METH a sone) is a corticosteroid. It is used to treat swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions in the eye.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): AK-Dex, Decadron, Maxidex

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• an active eye infection
• cataracts
• glaucoma
• contact lens wearer
• an unusual or allergic reaction to dexamethasone, corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops. Do not use more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Have your eyes checked as directed.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor or health care professional when you can wear your lenses again. If you continue wearing your lenses during treatment, wait 15 minutes after the application of the product before inserting your lenses again.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• changes in vision
• eye pain, swelling, or redness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• burning, discomfort, stinging when applied

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 8 and 27 degrees C (46 and 80 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medicine after the expiration date.

To get rid of medicines that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medicine to a medicine take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medicine, ask your pharmacist or health care provider how to get rid of this medicine safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What is dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is a medicine that healthcare providers use to treat many different medical conditions, including:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
• Skin conditions, such as psoriasis.
• Arthritis.
• Autoimmune conditions, like lupus.
• Ulcerative colitis.
• Breathing conditions.
• Ocular (eye) inflammation.

Dexamethasone comes in several different forms, including eye drops, tablets, liquids and injections. Your provider will prescribe the correct type based on your condition.

Is dexamethasone a steroid?

Yes, dexamethasone is a type of steroid medication called a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are human-made (synthetic) versions of hormones that your body naturally produces. When administered as eyedrops, they prevent your immune system from causing symptoms such as:

• Redness.
• Pain.
• Light sensitivity.
• Itching.
• Burning.
• Inflammation.
• Irritation.

How long do side effects of dexamethasone last?

Side effects of dexamethasone eye drops may include eye irritation and blurred vision. These side effects should go away after you’ve stopped using the drops. Contact your healthcare provider if these side effects are severe or don’t go away.

How long does dexamethasone take to work?

Dexamethasone eye drops should begin working within two days. Contact your provider if your symptoms don’t start to improve within one week.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Dexamethasone eye drops are a safe and effective medication that treats swelling, redness and irritation in your eyes. Dexamethasone is a type of corticosteroid, a human-made version of hormones your body naturally produces. They help reduce the effects of inflammation. If you have any questions about the use of dexamethasone eye drops, ask your healthcare provider.