Ozurdex

Ozurdex intravitreal implant is a corticosteroid used for the treatment of macular edema which happens when a blood vessel in the eye is clogged.

This causes vision changes which require immediate medical attention. This drug helps reduce the swelling in the eye.

Dexamethasone intravitreal implant is also used for the treatment of eye diseases such as uveitis and diabetic macular edema in patients with artificial lens implant or are scheduled for cataract surgery.

This drug is to be given only by or under the supervision of your healthcare professional.

Before using Ozurdex, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.

Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications.

Studies in children regarding the relationship of age to the effects of dexamethasone implant have not been performed while safety and efficacy have not been established.

Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of dexamethasone implant.

Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding.

Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding.

Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.

Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription and nonprescription drugs. Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects.

Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as:

• The detached retina
• Endophthalmitis
• Glaucoma
• Herpes infection of the eye
• Eye infection caused by a virus, fungus, or bacteria
• Eye lens problems

Proper usage of Ozurdex requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. This drug is implanted in your eye by an ophthalmologist in a hospital or clinic. It will stay in your eye and does not need to be removed.

Make sure you meet with your doctor in using Ozurdex to avoid unwanted potential side effects. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.

Check with your ophthalmologist immediately if you have a change in vision or the eye becomes red, sensitive to light, or painful. Also, tell your healthcare professional if you feel increased pressure in the eye. This drug may cause temporary blurred vision.

Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not able to see well. This implant could move into a different part of your eye if the back part of your lens is missing or torn. Talk to your healthcare professional if you have concerns.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Ozurdex. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:

• bloody eye
• blurred vision
• change in vision
• eye pain
• loss of vision
• redness of the white part of the eye or inside of the eyelid
• blindness
• decreased vision
• gradual loss of vision
• headache
• nausea
• seeing a veil or curtain across part of your vision
• seeing flashes or sparks of light
• seeing floating spots before the eyes
• vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the drug, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.