MAXIDEX OINTMENT (DEXAMETHASONE)

Maxidex Ointment Description

For inflammatory conditions of your eye, talk to your doctor about a prescription for Maxidex Ointment. These conditions include allergic conjunctivitis, uveitis, eye surgery post-op, corneal injury, non-infectious keratitis, and as part of the treatment for improving your chance of a successful graft in your eye. Maxidex Ointment will not cure bacterial, viral, or fungal infections of the eye, but in some cases your doctor may suggest a short course of Maxidex Ointment for your own comfort in reducing any inflammation.

Allergies, an irritation, or injury to your eye will alert your immune system that there is a threat to your body. An immune response is put into action with the release of substances that cause your blood vessels to dilate. The affected area then becomes inflamed, itchy, and painful. Although inflammation is a part of the healing process, it also causes more inflammation that begins a viscous cycle of hurting and healing.

Dexamethasone Suppresses Immune System to Reduce Inflammation

Maxidex Ointment contains Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid that will inhibit the action of certain cells so the production of inflammatory substances, including prostaglandins, are reduced as your immune system is suppressed. This results in decreased inflammation so the pain, redness, and swelling are less bothersome. Long-term use of any corticosteroid medication is not advised as it may cause a thinning of the tissue it is applied to.

Conditions Treated by Maxidex Ointment

Keratitis and uveitis are characteristics of certain autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, psoriasis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea and symptoms include a red eye, pain, a gritty feeling as you blink, light sensitivity, and blurry vision.

Uveitis is the result of an inflammatory response inside your eye to the uvea, which involves your iris, the choroid (a vascular layer between the retina and sclera), and the ciliary body. Maxidex Ointment can help to reduce the inflammation but due to how deep uveitis can be, your doctor may also recommend other medications to be taken orally.

Before Maxidex Ointment is Prescribed

Ask your doctor if Maxidex Ointment is safe to use if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and provide a list of any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including alternative medicine. This will help your doctor determine if Maxidex Ointment is the right medication for you.

Maxidex Ointment Proper Use

Remove any contact lenses before applying Maxidex Ointment as the ingredients could cause discoloration. Your doctor may request that you do not reinsert contacts until after the treatment period as they may increase the irritation. If there are other ophthalmic meds you are using, ask your doctor in which order they should be used, taken, or instilled.

Possible Side Effects of Maxidex Ointment

• Burning/stinging after application
• Temporary blurred vision
• Eye pain