Dexamethasone intravitreal implant

What is this medication?

DEXAMETHASONE (dex a METH a sone) is a corticosteroid. It is placed in the eye during a procedure and is used to help treat swelling in the eye or a condition called macular edema.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ozurdex

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
• 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 placed in the eye by a doctor or healthcare professional. It is given in a hospital or clinic setting.

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?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without talking to 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?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need to have regular eye exams after your procedure.

Make sure to follow all of the instructions given to you by your health care provider after your procedure. Because you may have blurred vision or a temporary change in vision after the procedure, follow all directions regarding driving or operating machinery.

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
• signs of infection in the eye, such as pain, redness, swelling, and discharge

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

• headache
• moving black spots in your vision ('floaters') following the procedure
• eye irritation or redness following the procedure
• watery eyes

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?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

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.