Maxidex is a prescription ophthalmic solution containing dexamethasone, a corticosteroid used to treat various inflammatory conditions of the eye. It is particularly effective in managing inflammation and allergic reactions, as well as injuries to the cornea.
Key Uses
Maxidex is indicated for:
- Eye Inflammation: Reduces redness, swelling, and discomfort caused by conditions such as uveitis, iritis, and allergic conjunctivitis.
- Post-Surgical Inflammation: Helps manage inflammation following eye surgery or injury.
- Chemical Burns: Aids in healing injuries to the cornea caused by chemical exposure or foreign bodies.
Dosage and Administration
- Recommended Dosage: The usual dosage is 1 to 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 3 to 4 hours. For more severe conditions, it may be administered every hour initially, with frequency reduced as the condition improves.
- Application Instructions:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before use.
2. Shake the bottle well before each use.
3. Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
4. Place the dropper tip close to (but not touching) the eye and squeeze out the prescribed number of drops.
5. Close your eyes gently and press on the inner corner of your eye for about 1-2 minutes to help absorption.
6. Avoid touching the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Temporary blurred vision
- Eye irritation or discomfort
- Redness of the eye
- Increased sensitivity to light
Serious side effects can include:
- Increased intraocular pressure (risk of glaucoma)
- Cataracts
- Signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing)
Precautions
- Do not use Maxidex if you have an eye infection (including viral infections like herpes simplex).
- Avoid wearing soft contact lenses while using this medication; remove lenses before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
- Prolonged use may require regular monitoring of intraocular pressure.
