Before using dexamethasone and anti-infective eye preparations

Before using dexamethasone and anti-infective eye preparations make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have glaucoma (raised pressure in the eye).
• If you know you have an infection in your eye.
• If you wear contact lenses.
• If you are taking or using other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

How to use dexamethasone and anti-infective eye preparations

Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.

EYE DROPS:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Pull the lower lid of the affected eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between your thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the eye but try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops
6. Close your eye and keep it closed for one to two minutes pressing gently on the side of your nose where the corner of your eye meets your nose
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been asked to use this preparation in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with your fingers as you do so

EYE OINTMENT:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand; hold the container upside down near to the eye but 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. Try not to touch your eye as you do this
6. Blink a few times to spread the ointment around the inside of your eye
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been asked to use the ointment in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with your fingers as you do so

Getting the most from your treatment

• These eye preparations are only intended for short-term use. It is important to only use this preparation for as long as it is needed.
• If you are using any other eye drops or eye 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 you remember.
• If your symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if they become worse, stop using this preparation and check with your doctor.
• Do not use this preparation more often, or for a longer period, than your doctor has told you.

Can dexamethasone and anti-infective eye preparations cause problems?

Along with their useful effect, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store dexamethasone and anti-infective eye preparations

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light, but do not refrigerate.
• If there is any preparation left in the container after you have finished your course of treatment, do not keep it. These preparations must not be used if the container has been opened for longer than four weeks

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Sofradex® Ear/Eye Drops, Sanofi-aventis, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised October 2007, accessed March 2009.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Tobradex® Eye Drops, Alcon Laboratories (U.K) Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2001, accessed February 2010.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Maxitrol® Ointment, Alcon Laboratories (U.K) Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2003, accessed February 2010.
• British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)