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Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic)

Generic Medicine
Indications

Dexamethasone ophthalmic solution or ointment is used for the treatment of various inflammatory and allergic eye conditions, including:

  • Allergic non-infectious blepharitis and conjunctivitis
  • Non-infectious keratitis, including punctate keratitis and disciform keratitis (when the corneal surface is intact)
  • Inflammation of the anterior uveal tract such as iritis and iridocyclitis
  • Scleritis, episcleritis, and myositis
  • Post-operative management following cataract surgery, strabismus correction, and other ocular procedures
Pharmacology

Dexamethasone is a derivative of cortisone with enhanced potency due to the presence of a methyl group at the 16-alpha position and a fluorine atom at the 9-alpha position. As a result, its anti-inflammatory activity is approximately 30 times greater, and its overall therapeutic effectiveness is about 8–10 times higher than that of hydrocortisone. Like other glucocorticoids, it exhibits anti-allergic, anti-exudative, and anti-proliferative properties. After local application of a single drop of 0.1% solution, therapeutic levels of dexamethasone can be detected in the cornea and aqueous humor within 15–30 minutes, and these levels remain effective for about 4–6 hours. Its mechanism of action involves inhibition of phospholipase A2, an early step in prostaglandin synthesis, and it also reduces the chemotactic migration of neutrophils to sites of inflammation.

Dosage Administration

Dexamethasone ophthalmic solution: Instill 1 drop into the conjunctival sac 3-5 times per day. Acute cases: up to 1 drop every hour if necessary.

Dexamethasone ophthalmic ointment: Apply a small amount into the conjunctival sac 3-4 times per day. Slowly close your eyes without blinking. Keep your eyes closed for 1 to 2 minutes. Minimize the dose when desired improvement is observed

Interactions

No specific studies have been performed to evaluate drug interactions with Dexamethasone.

Contraindications

This medication should not be used in cases of corneal injuries or ulcerative conditions, especially those caused by bacterial or viral infections (such as herpes simplex or vaccinia), purulent infections of the conjunctiva and eyelids, as well as in tuberculosis, fungal infections (mycosis), and glaucoma.

Side Effects

In susceptible individuals, prolonged use of corticosteroids for several weeks may lead to a reversible increase in intraocular pressure. Therefore, regular monitoring of eye pressure is necessary.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Animal studies with dexamethasone have demonstrated harmful effects on the fetus. However, there are no well-controlled studies in humans. Therefore, dexamethasone ophthalmic preparations should be used during pregnancy only if the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.

Precautions & Warnings

Corticosteroids may conceal, trigger, or worsen eye infections. If no improvement is observed after a few days of use, an alternative treatment should be considered. Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, as this may contaminate the ophthalmic solution or ointment.

Overdose Effects

Overdose is unlikely to occur through local application or accidental oral ingestion.

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature and protect from light. The contents should preferably be used within one month after first opening the bottle.

Common Questions

What is Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) for?

What does Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) do?

What are the side effects of Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic)?

What happens if you take too much Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic)?

Can Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic) be used during pregnancy?

No available drugs found

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