Dexamethasone Eye Drops

What are dexamethasone eye drops?

Dexamethasone eye drops are a type of prescription-only corticosteroid medicine used to treat eye inflammation. They are available under several brand names, including Maxidex, Dexafree, Dropodex, and Eythalm. These drops are typically prescribed by an eye specialist and are used short-term unless otherwise directed[1]. 

You can also find advice here on dexamethasone tablets and liquid. 

What are dexamethasone eye drops used for?

Dexamethasone eye drops are used to treat several eye-related conditions, particularly those involving inflammation[1]: 

• Inflammation of the eye (e.g. uveitis, allergic conjunctivitis) 

• Post-operative inflammation (e.g. after cataract surgery) 

• Allergic eye conditions (when other treatments haven’t worked) 

• Injury-related inflammation (e.g. after trauma to the eye). They are not suitable for treating infections unless used alongside an anti-infective treatment 

How does letrozole work?

Letrozole works by reducing the amount of oestrogen in the body. It does this by blocking an enzyme called aromatase, which normally converts androgens into oestrogen. Since some breast cancers grow in response to oestrogen, lowering oestrogen levels helps to slow or stop their growth and spread, improving the condition over time[1]. 

How do dexamethasone eye drops work?

Dexamethasone is a potent corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation in the eye. It does this by[1]: 

• Suppressing the inflammatory immune response 

• Reducing swelling, redness, and irritation 

• Inhibiting the release of substances that cause inflammation 

Who can take dexamethasone eye drops?

These drops can be used by most adults and children aged 2 and over under careful supervision. You should speak to a doctor first if you[1]: 

• Have an untreated eye infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal) 

• Have uncontrolled advanced glaucoma or a history of steroid-induced high eye pressure 

• Have corneal ulcers or damaged eye surfaces 

• Have shingles 

• Have tuberculosis 

• Are allergic to dexamethasone or any ingredients in the drops 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of dexamethasone eye drops?

The dosing schedule depends on the condition being treated and its severity[1]: 

• Typical dose: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 4 to 6 times a day 

• Severe cases: 1 drop every 30 to 60 minutes, then gradually reduce as symptoms improve 

• Post-operative care: Duration and dose vary, often over several weeks 

How do you take dexamethasone eye drops?

For best results, use the drops as follows[1]: 

• Wash your hands 

• Remove contact lenses and wait 15 minutes before reinserting 

• Shake the bottle if it's a suspension 

• Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid 

• Drop 1 drop into the eye without touching your eye with the dropper 

• Close your eye and press the inner corner for 30 seconds 

• Repeat for the other eye if needed 

Can you stop taking dexamethasone eye drops?

Do not stop using these drops suddenly unless advised by your pharmacist or doctor. They may gradually reduce your dose to avoid rebound inflammation[1]. 

What do you do if you use too much dexamethasone eye drops?

An overdose is unlikely to cause harm, but it may lead to eye irritation. If the eye becomes sore, rinse with sterile water and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms persist[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take dexamethasone eye drops?

If you forget a dose[1]: 

• Use the drops as soon as you remember 

• If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one 

• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application 

How do you store dexamethasone eye drops?

Proper storage helps maintain effectiveness and safety[1]: 

• Store below 25°C 

• Keep the bottle tightly closed and upright 

• Discard 4 weeks after opening or immediately if single-use container 

• Keep out of reach of children 

What medicines can’t you take with dexamethasone eye drops?

Some medicines may interact with dexamethasone eye drops. You should speak to your doctor first if you are taking the following[1]: 

• Are taking or have recently taken other eye drops such as atropine 

• Topical NSAIDs (e.g. ketorolac) may delay healing if combined with steroids 

• Other corticosteroids 

• Medicine used to treat epilepsy (e.g. phenytoin), cold and flu medicine (ephedrine) or medicine used to treat tuberculosis (rifampicin)  

• HIV medications (e.g. ritonavir and cobicistat) 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of dexamethasone eye drops?

Most people use dexamethasone eye drops without problems, but side effects are possible. Common side effects include[1]: 

• Blurred vision 

• Eye irritation or discomfort 

• Increased eye pressure (possible risk of glaucoma) 

Less common but more serious side effects include[1]: 

• Cataract formation or glaucoma with long-term use 

• Eye infections due to immune suppression 

• Delayed wound healing 

• Eye pain as a sign of a potential eye ulcer 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about dexamethasone eye drops

Can I use dexamethasone eye drops with contact lenses? 
No, remove lenses before use and wait 15 minutes before reinserting[1]. 

How long can I use them for? 
Usually a few days to weeks. Long-term use should be supervised[1]. 

Do they treat infections? 
No, not on their own. They must be combined with an anti-infective for that purpose[1]. 

Can I drive after using them? 
Wait until your vision clears if blurred[1]. 

Do they cause glaucoma?  
They can increase eye pressure, which can lead to glaucoma with prolonged use[1]. 

Can I use them with other eye drops? 
Only if advised. Wait at least 5 minutes between different drops[1]. 

What should I do if symptoms return after stopping? 
Contact your doctor. You may need to restart or adjust treatment[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to dexamethasone eye drops, visit their website.