Dexamethasone - Ophthalmic

Dexamethasone is used to relieve inflammation of the eye.

Use Dexamethasone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as an eye drop solution, suspension, or as an eye ointment.

If you are using the eye drop solution or suspension, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before using the eye drops.
2. Shake the bottle well before using, if needed.
3. Tilt your head slightly backward. With the index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Look upward and instil the required number of drops inside the lower eyelid.
4. Close your eyes and do not blink for at least 30 seconds. Using your index finger, gently press against the corner of the eye, nearest the nose.
5. Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a clean tissue.
6. Replace and tighten the cap of the bottle.

If you are using the eye ointment, follow these steps:

1. Wash and dry your hands before applying the ointment.
2. With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid down the eye to form a pouch.
3. Hold the tube with your other hand and place it as near to your eyelid as possible without touching it. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment into the pouch.
4. Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for a few minutes.
5. Wipe any excess ointment from the eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. With another clean tissue, wipe the tip of the tube clean.
6. Replace and tighten the cap of the tube.
7. Wash your hands to remove any medication.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper/tube of this medicine to touch your eyes, eyelids, or any other surface. Recap the eye drop/tube immediately after use. If the eye drop/tube becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eyes.

If you have been given any other eye medicine to be used together with Dexamethasone, wait for at least 5 minutes before using the other medicine.

Do not share your eye drops or ointment with anyone else.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition and your response to the medication.

Do not stop using Dexamethasone suddenly as it may worsen your condition. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose before stopping it completely. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Instil or apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• bacterial, fungal, viral, or tuberculosis infection of the eye
• glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• other eye problems e.g. damaged cornea (transparent layer in the front of the eye)

as Dexamethasone may not be suitable for you.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are wearing soft contact lenses, remove it before using Dexamethasone. Wait for at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses.

Dexamethasone may cause your vision to be temporarily blurred. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: discomfort in the eye after using, eye itching, irritation, and burning sensation.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.