Dexamethasone & anti-infective eye preps

About Dexamethasone & Anti-infective Eye Preparations

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

This preparation contains Dexamethasone and an anti-infective, such as Neomycin, Polymyxin or Tobramycin, to prevent or treat infections.

This preparation is used to treat short-term inflammatory conditions of the eye, providing relief from inflammation, redness, irritation, allergies and other conditions.

This preparation may also contain Hypromellose (artificial tears) to soothe the eyes.

This preparation is available in drop and ointment form.

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

Before using Dexamethasone & Anti-infective Eye Preparations

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

• 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 & Anti-infective Eye Preparations

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

EYE DROPS:

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

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, try not to touch the applicator tip with the fingers as you do so
10. Wash your hands

EYE 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

Getting the most from your treatment

• Apply this preparation exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• If you are using any other eye drops or ear ointments, leave at least five minutes between applying each preparation.
• Try not to miss doses. If you do miss a dose, then apply the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If your symptoms do not improve within seven days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
• Do not use this preparation more often, or for a longer period than your doctor has directed.
• 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 preparation, 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 & Anti-infective Eye Preparations cause problems?

This preparation may sometimes cause a mild burning or stinging sensation when first put into the eye. If this becomes too troublesome or if you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this preparation ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store Dexamethasone & Anti-infective Eye Preparations

• 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: 16/02/2005