Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Dexamethasone is employed in the treatment of various conditions, including arthritis, blood and hormone disorders, allergic reactions, skin diseases, eye problems, breathing difficulties, bowel disorders, cancer, and immune system disorders. It can also serve as a diagnostic tool for assessing adrenal gland disorders, such as Cushing’s syndrome.
Classified as a corticosteroid, dexamethasone operates by diminishing the response of the immune system to diverse diseases, thereby alleviating symptoms such as swelling and allergic reactions.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, typically 3 to 4 times daily.
While using this medicine, refrain from wearing contact lenses. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for sterilizing contact lenses, and consult your doctor before resuming their use.
Allow several minutes for your vision to clear before engaging in activities like driving or operating machinery.
Consistently use this medication to derive maximum benefit. To facilitate consistency, administer it at the same time(s) each day.
The dosage and duration of treatment hinge on your medical condition and response to the medication. Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and duration to mitigate the risk of adverse effects. Avoid overuse or prolonged usage beyond what is prescribed.
Continue using this medication for the entire prescribed duration. Do not cease usage without consulting your doctor, as stopping abruptly may exacerbate certain conditions. Your doctor may advise gradually reducing the dose as necessary.
Do not utilize this product if it becomes contaminated, such as if the ointment changes color or develops particles. Use of contaminated eye medication can lead to infection, severe eye damage, and vision loss. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.
Inform your doctor if your condition fails to improve after a few days or if it worsens.
To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:
- Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
- Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
- Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
- Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
- Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
- Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
- Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
- Wash hands to remove any residual medication.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach
- stomach irritation
- vomiting
- headache
- dizziness
- insomnia
- restlessness
- depression
- anxiety
- acne
- increased hair growth
- easy bruising
- irregular or absent menstrual periods
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- skin rash
- swollen face, lower legs, or ankles
- vision problems
- cold or infection that lasts a long time
- muscle weakness
- black or tarry stool
Caution
- Before using dexamethasone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of eye infections, recent eye surgery, cataracts, open-angle glaucoma, severe nearsightedness (myopia), or diabetes.
- Following the application of this drug, your vision may temporarily become blurred. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require clear vision until it’s safe to do so.
- If you experience a new eye infection or injury, or if eye surgery is required, consult your doctor regarding the continued use of your current tube of dexamethasone eye ointment or the initiation of a new tube.
- During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It’s unclear whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Maxidex Ointment is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Maxidex Ointment eye ointment:
- 0.10 %
FAQ
When should my eye get better after starting Maxidex?
The inflammation and pain in your eye should start to get better within 2 days of using Maxidex.
Can I use Maxidex to treat dry eyes?
No. Maxidex should only be used as prescribed by your provider for treating inflammation problems in or around your eye.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/maxidex/what-is#faqs
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682869.html
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/maxidex#google_vignette
- https://www.rxlist.com/maxidex-ointment-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-166223/maxidex-dexamethasone-sod-phosphate-ophthalmic-eye/details
