Dexamethasone

CORTICOSTEROIDS – OPHTHALMIC DROPS

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Decadron, Econopred, HMS, Maxidex, Pred Mild

USES: This medication is used to treat swelling and itching of the eye (ophthalmic).

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Use this as prescribed. To apply eye medication, wash hands first. Be careful not to touch the dropper tip or let it touch the affected area to avoid contamination. Shake suspension form well before using. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. If you are using another kind of eye medication, wait five to ten minutes before applying.

SIDE EFFECTS: The side effects listed assume short-term use of this medication. This medication may temporarily sting when first applied. If it persists or becomes bothersome, inform your doctor. Vision may be temporarily blurred after applying eye medication. Use caution if driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. Notify your doctor if you develop skin rash, itching, Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, itching, redness or swelling in or around the eyes. Very unlikely effects:

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor: any allergies, infections, eye problems. Using contact lenses during treatment with this drug may increase the chance of developing an eye infection. Prolonged use may result in glaucoma, cataracts, and other eye problems. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Consult your doctor if breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES: If the condition for which this was prescribed does not improve or becomes worse after a few days, consult your doctor.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not ‘double-up’ the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight. Avoid freezing.