Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Ophthalmic ointment

What is this medicine?

DEXAMETHASONE (dex a METH a sone) is a corticosteroid. It is used to treat swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions in the eye.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any type of active infection
• cataracts
• contact lens wearer
• diabetes
• glaucoma
• an unusual or allergic reaction to dexamethasone, corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly, and pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Squeeze a strip of the ointment (about 1/3-inch long) into the pouch and close your eye. Do not touch the eye or eyelid with the tip of the tube. Do not blink. Close the eye for a few moments to allow the medicine to be in contact with the eye. Do not use this medicine more often or for a longer period of time than prescribed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not get better within 5 days, or if it gets worse. Check with your doctor or health care professional before using this medicine for any future eye problems. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are exposed to anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor or health care professional when you can use your lenses again.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• changes in vision
• eye pain
• infection
• nausea, vomiting
• watery eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• burning, redness or stinging in the eye
• temporary watering or blurring of vision

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.