What is AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Dexamethasone ophthalmic is in a class of drugs called corticosteroids. It inhibits processes in the body that cause inflammation. Therefore, the swelling and pain of inflammatory conditions is decreased.

Dexamethasone ophthalmic is used to treat eye inflammation caused by infections, injury, surgery, or other conditions.

Dexamethasone ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Do not use dexamethasone ophthalmic if you have a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in your eye without also receiving proper anti-infective treatment.

Dexamethasone ophthalmic is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether dexamethasone ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is also not known whether dexamethasone ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Do not use dexamethasone ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

AK-Dex Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Serious side effects are not expected with this medication. Rarely, an increase in the pressure inside of the eye, formation of cataracts, or a perforation of the cornea has been reported. Talk to your doctor about any possible side effects.

More commonly, some burning, stinging, irritation, itching, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light may occur.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

AK-Dex Interactions

What other drugs affect AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Do not use other eyedrops or eye medications during treatment with dexamethasone ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking an oral steroid medication such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others), methylprednisolone (Medrol), hydrocortisone (Cortef, Hydrocortone), and others.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with dexamethasone ophthalmic. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

What should I avoid while taking AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dexamethasone ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment with dexamethasone ophthalmic.

AK-Dex Dosage

How should I take AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Use dexamethasone ophthalmic eyedrops or ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before using your eyedrops or ointment.

To apply the eyedrops:

• Shake the bottle gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out the prescribed number of drops and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct. If you are using drops in both eyes, repeat the process in the other eye

To apply the ointment:

• Hold the tube in your hand for a few minutes to warm it up so that the ointment comes out easily. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down gently on your lower eyelid. Apply a thin film of the ointment into your lower eyelid. Close your eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions for 1 to 2 minutes. If you are applying another eye medication, allow at least 10 minutes before your next application

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it.

Store dexamethasone ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle or tube properly capped.

What happens if I overdose on AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the drops or ointment have been ingested, call an emergency center for advice.

What happens if I miss a dose of AK-Dex (Dexamethasone Ophthalmic)?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

Edited from everydayhealth.com