Generic
Dexamethasone 0.05% Eye Prep
7 brands available in the market
At a glance
Dexamethasone 0.05% Eye Prep is a steroid used for the treatment of inflammatory conditions of the eye, such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, iritis, scleritis, and post-operative inflammation.
Description
Dexamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid which decreases inflammation by inhibiting the migration of leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability. It suppresses normal immune response.
Indications
- Steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment
- Conjunctivitis, keratitis, iritis, scleritis
- Corneal injury from chemical or thermal burns
- Post-operative inflammation
Therapeutic class
Other Topical corticosteroids
Pharmacological class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacology
Dexamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid which decreases inflammation by inhibiting the migration of leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability. It suppresses normal immune response.
Mechanism of action
Dexamethasone inhibits phospholipase A2, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, and suppresses immune cell activity, thereby reducing eye inflammation.
Dosage
Adult (0.05% ointment): Apply 0.5-1 inch ribbon of ointment into the conjunctival sac(s) up to 4 times daily. Reduce to once daily once condition has improved.
Administration
For ophthalmic use only. Pull down lower eyelid and apply a small amount (0.5-1 inch) of ointment into the conjunctival sac. Close the eye and gently roll the eye (to spread the ointment).
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed dose.
Side effects
Common (4%): Cataract.
Rare (<1%): Ocular hypertension, open-angle glaucoma, optic nerve damage, defects in visual acuity and field (after prolonged use), transient ocular stinging/burning, local irritation, ocular discharge, ocular discomfort/pain, foreign body sensation, hyperemia, blurred vision, pruritus, lid margin crusting, dry eye, conjunctival edema, corneal staining, keratitis, tearing, corneal ulcer, posterior subcapsular cataracts (prolonged use).
Precautions & warnings
Caution in hypothyroidism, cirrhosis, hypertension, CHF, ulcerative colitis, thromboembolic disorders, osteoporosis, glaucoma, cataracts, TB of the eye, diabetes, peptic ulcer. Monitor blood glucose in diabetics and coagulation indices in patients on warfarin.
Contraindications
Patients wearing contact lenses; herpes simplex & other virus conditions; mycosis; glaucoma; newborn babies; fungal diseases of ocular structures; hypersensitivity to any component.
Drug interactions
No adequate information on drug interactions is available.
Food interactions
Can be used with or without food.
Use in pregnancy
There are no adequate or well-controlled studies in pregnant women; use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk. Prolonged or repeated use may increase risk of intra-uterine growth retardation.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth. Unknown whether topical administration could result in sufficient systemic absorption.
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric use
Use with caution in elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions are necessary for patients with kidney or liver problems.
Overdose effects
No adequate information on overdose is available.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, protected from light.
Chemical structure
Dexamethasone 0.05% Eye Prep