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What is the most important information I should know about dexamethasone ophthalmic:
Not all forms of dexamethasone are FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly
accepted practice for veterinarians to use dexamethasone ophthalmic in dogs and cats.
Dexamethasone ophthalmic is a prescription medication available as 0.1% sterile eye drops. Do
not stop using this medication suddenly especially if it has been used for several weeks or
more. The dose may need to be reduced over several days to prevent side effects. Contact your
veterinarian if the pet's symptoms begin to get worse or if you do not see any improvement to
the pet's condition after a few days. Do not touch the dropper opening to any surface,
including eyes and hands. The dropper opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could
cause an infection in the eye.
What is Dexamethasone ophthalmic: Dexamethasone ophthalmic is in a class called
corticosteroids. It is used to inhibit inflammation and, therefore, swelling and pain from
inflammation is lessened. Dexamethasone ophthalmic is used to treat eye inflammation caused by
infections, injury, surgery, or other conditions. Dexamethasone ophthalmic may also be used for
purposes other than those listed.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before using dexamethasone ophthalmic in my
pet: Do not use dexamethasone ophthalmic if the pet has a bacterial, viral or fungal
infection without also using proper anti-infective treatment. Tell your veterinarian if your
pet is pregnant or lactating.
How should this medication be used: Use this medication exactly as directed by your
veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to
explain them to you. Wash your hands prior to using the eye drops. Shake the bottle gently to
be sure the medication is properly mixed. Do not use any eye drop that is discolored or has
particles in it. Store dexamethasone ophthalmic at room temperature, away from moisture and
heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.
What happens if I miss applying a dose: Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and
apply the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet: An overdose of this medication is unlikely. If an
overdose is suspected, seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. If the drops are ingested,
contact a veterinary emergency center for advice.
What should I avoid while applying dexamethasone ophthalmic to my pet: Do not touch the
dropper opening to any surface including eyes or hands. This medication may cause blurred
vision.
What are the possible side effects of dexamethasone ophthalmic: Serious side effects are
not expected. Rarely, pressure increase inside the eye, formation of cataracts or a perforation
of the cornea may occur. Other, more common side effects may also occur such as burning,
stinging, irritation, itching, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. Continue the
medication and talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome
to the animal.
What other drugs will affect dexamethasone ophthalmic: Before giving dexamethasone
ophthalmic, tell your veterinarian if your pet is using other eye drops or eye medications.
Tell your veterinarian if the pet is being given oral steroid medications such as prednisone,
Methylprednisolone or others. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with
dexamethasone ophthalmic. Talk to the veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription
or over the counter medicines.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about
dexamethasone ophthalmic written for health professionals that you may read.
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