Ozurdex implants contain dexamethasone, a corticosteroid used to treat inflammation.
Ozurdex is an implant injected into the eye to treat swelling that may occur when there is a blockage of certain blood vessels in your eyes.
Ozurdex is also used to treat posterior uveitis, inflammation that affects the back part of the eye.
Ozurdex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Ozurdex is a steroid implant injected into the eye to treat swelling that may occur when there is a blockage of certain blood vessels in your eyes.
You should not receive an Ozurdex implant if you have an eye infection, advanced glaucoma, an artificial lens implanted in your eye, or a history of eye ulcer, surgery, or wound that has injured or removed the lens in your eye.
Ozurdex can increase your risk of certain eye problems. Call your doctor at once if you have vision changes, eye pain or redness, increased sensitivity to light, or seeing halos around lights.
Before receiving Ozurdex?
You should not receive Ozurdex if you are allergic to dexamethasone, or if you have:
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an eye infection;
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advanced glaucoma;
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an artificial lens implanted in your eye; or
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a history of eye ulcer, surgery, or wound that has injured or removed the lens in your eye.
To make sure Ozurdex is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had herpes infection of the eyes.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Ozurdex will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
It is not known whether dexamethasone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How is Ozurdex given?
Ozurdex will be injected into your eye by healthcare professional in a clinic setting.
After the implant is put in place, you will be watched closely for any swelling, inflammation, or increased pressure in your eye.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Ozurdex is a surgical implant, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
Since the Ozurdex contains a specific amount of the medication, you are not likely to receive an overdose.
What should I avoid?
This medication may cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.
Ozurdex side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to Ozurdex: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
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vision problems, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights;
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eye redness, increased sensitivity of your eyes to light; or
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vision changes.
Common Ozurdex side effects may include blurred vision.
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.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Ozurdex?
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on dexamethasone used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
