Drug
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate
Pronounced
"dex-a-METH-a-sone"
Uses
This medication is used to treat certain eye conditions due to inflammation or injury. Dexamethasone works by relieving symptoms such as swelling, redness, and itching. It belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids.
How to Use This Medication
Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a day.
Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again.
To apply the eye ointment, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the tube tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Gently pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place a 1/2 inch (1.5 centimeters) strip of ointment into the pouch. Gently close the eye and roll the eyeball in all directions to spread the medication. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye.
Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Wipe the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue to remove extra medication before recapping it.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (for example, other drops or ointments), apply the eye drops first and wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying this eye ointment. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not use this medication more often or for longer than prescribed because doing so may increase your risk of side effects.
Continue to use this medication for the full time prescribed. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Do not use this product if it becomes contaminated (for example, ointment turns a dark color or develops particles in it). Use of contaminated eye medication can cause infection, serious damage to the eye, and loss of vision. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better in a few days or if it gets worse.