Dexamethasone, Framycetin and Gramicidin preps

About Dexamethasone, Framycetin and Gramicidin preps

This belongs to the group of medicines known as anti-inflammatory eye and ear preparations.

This preparation contains three ingredients, dexamethasone, framycetin and gramicidin.

This preparation is used to treat inflammatory conditions of the ear or eye, particularly those caused by a bacterial infection.

Dexamethasone is used to relieve any inflammation, itching and pain you may be experiencing. Framycetin and gramicidin are both used to treat bacterial infections, by killing the bacteria responsible for causing the infection.

This preparation is available in drop and ointment form.

It is also sometimes known as: Sofradex. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Dexamethasone, Framycetin and Gramicidin preps

Before using any of this preparation make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant or breast-feeding
• if you have a perforated ear drum
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Dexamethasone, Framycetin and Gramicidin preps

Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.

FOR USE IN THE EYE:

If the eye(s) have an obvious discharge or 'crust' they may be bathed with boiled and cooled water before treating with this preparation.

DROPS:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops
6. Close the eye, and keep it closed for one to two minutes.
7. If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop
8. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use this preparation in both eyes
9. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with the fingers as you do so
10. Wash your hands

OINTMENT:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release a thin line of ointment along the inside of the lower eye lid
6. Blink to spread the ointment around the inside of the eye
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use this preparation in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with the fingers as you do so
9. Wash your hands

FOR USE IN THE EAR:

If you find it more comfortable, you may warm this preparation to body temperature (but no higher) by holding the drops in your hand for a few minutes before administering.

DROPS:

If you find it more comfortable, you may warm the eardrops to body temperature by holding the drops in your hand for a few minutes before instilling into the ear.

1. Clean the ear with warm water and dry thoroughly, wash your hands
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Lie down or tilt the head so that the affected ear faces up
4. Gently pull the earlobe to straighten the ear canal
5. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the ear, try not to touch the inside of the ear
6. Apply enough pressure to the container to release four to five drops
7. Keep the ear facing up for a few minutes to allow the solution to come into contact with the affected area
8. Repeat in the other ear if you have been instructed to use these drops in both ears
9. Replace the outer cap on the container
10. Wash your hands

OINTMENT:

1. Clean the ear with warm water and dry thoroughly. Do not use soap to clean the ear
2. Lie down, or tilt the head, so that the affected ear faces up
3. Gently pull the earlobe to straighten the ear canal
4. Squeeze a small amount of ointment into the ear
5. Repeat in the other ear if you have been instructed to use this ointment in both ears
6. Wipe the tip of the tube with a clean tissue and replace the cap securely
7. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

• Apply this preparation exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• If you are using this preparation in the eyes and, are using any other eye drops or eye ointments, leave at least five minutes between applying each preparation
• Do not use this preparation for more than one week.
• If your symptoms do not improve within seven days or if they become worse, make an appointment to see your doctor.
• Do not use this preparation more often, or for a longer period, than your doctor has directed you.
• This preparation is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours
• This preparation is for external use only. If you suspect someone has swallowed any of this medicine, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.

Can Dexamethasone, Framycetin and Gramicidin preps cause problems?

You may experience a mild burning or stinging sensation in the ear or eye when you first start using this preparation. If this becomes severe or if you notice any worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store Dexamethasone, Framycetin and Gramicidin preps

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Discard this preparation four weeks after opening
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 23/09/2002