Dexamethasone

What Is Dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation and modifying the body's immune response. It is available in several formulations, and its approved uses depend on the specific product and route of administration.

For eye conditions, dexamethasone may be supplied as an ophthalmic formulation. For example, dexamethasone ophthalmic insert products are indicated for ocular inflammation and pain following ophthalmic surgery and, in certain patients, itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.

Because different dexamethasone formulations have different indications, strengths and directions for use, patients should use the formulation prescribed or recommended by their healthcare professional.

How Does Dexamethasone Work?

Dexamethasone works by reducing inflammatory activity in the body. Corticosteroids influence the release and activity of substances involved in inflammation and immune responses, helping reduce symptoms such as swelling, redness, irritation and inflammation when the medicine is appropriate for the condition being treated.

When used in the eye, dexamethasone can reduce inflammation associated with conditions for which an ophthalmic corticosteroid is indicated. It does not treat bacterial or viral infections simply because inflammation is present.

Dexamethasone for Eye Inflammation

Ophthalmic dexamethasone may be prescribed when inflammation of the eye requires corticosteroid treatment. Certain dexamethasone products are specifically indicated for ocular inflammation and pain following ophthalmic surgery. Other formulations may have different approved uses.

The cause of eye redness or irritation matters. Bacterial, viral, fungal and allergic eye conditions can require different treatments, so corticosteroid eye medicines should be used only when appropriate medical guidance has been provided.

Dexamethasone and Allergic Eye Symptoms

Some ophthalmic dexamethasone formulations are used to relieve ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. DEXTENZA, for example, is indicated for ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children aged 2 years and older.

Not every dexamethasone product is approved for the same purpose. Always check the specific product information and follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

Who Should Not Use Dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is not appropriate for every patient or condition. Tell your healthcare professional about your medical history, allergies, current medicines and any existing eye problems before using an ophthalmic corticosteroid.

Particular caution may be necessary when an eye problem could be caused by an infection, because corticosteroids can affect the body's inflammatory and immune response. The exact contraindications and warnings depend on the dexamethasone formulation.

Do not use a dexamethasone medicine for an undiagnosed eye condition simply because the eye is red, swollen or irritated.

Possible Dexamethasone Side Effects

Side effects depend on the formulation, dose, duration of treatment and route of administration.

Ophthalmic corticosteroid products can cause local eye-related effects, and prolonged or inappropriate corticosteroid use may require medical monitoring. Some ophthalmic dexamethasone products carry warnings concerning increased intraocular pressure, cataract formation and delayed healing or worsening of certain eye infections.

Seek medical advice if eye symptoms become worse, vision changes occur, significant eye pain develops or symptoms do not improve as expected.

General Precautions for Safer Use

• Use dexamethasone only in the formulation and strength prescribed for you.

• Do not use someone else's corticosteroid medicine.

• Do not use an ophthalmic corticosteroid for unexplained eye redness without professional advice.

• Follow the prescribed duration of treatment.

• Tell your healthcare professional about other eye medicines you are using.

• Report worsening symptoms, vision changes or significant eye pain promptly.

• Check the product packaging and expiry date before use.

• Follow the storage instructions supplied with the specific product.