Maxidex (ophthalmic)
Generic name: dexamethasone (ophthalmic) [ DEX-a-METH-a-sone-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand name: Maxidex
Drug class: Ophthalmic steroids
What is Maxidex ophthalmic?
Maxidex (for the eyes) is a steroid medicine used to treat eye inflammation caused by allergies, shingles (herpes zoster), severe acne, iritis, uveitis, eye injury, radiation, chemical burns, or certain other conditions.
Maxidex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Maxidex ophthalmic side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Maxidex may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
-
blurred vision, tunnel vision;
-
eye pain; or
-
if you see halos around lights.
Common side effects of Maxidex may include:
-
eye irritation.
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.
Warnings
You should not use Maxidex if you have an eye infection (including herpes simplex).
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Maxidex if you are allergic to it, or if you have an eye infection (including herpes simplex).
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
-
glaucoma; or
-
cataracts.
Using Maxidex long-term may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Maxidex is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I use Maxidex ophthalmic?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Shake the eye drops well just before each use.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.
Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.
If you use Maxidex for longer than 10 days, you may need frequent vision tests to check the pressure inside your eyes.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
You should not stop using this medicine suddenly. Follow your doctor's instructions about tapering your dose.
Related/similar drugs
prednisone, diclofenac ophthalmic, cetirizine ophthalmic, triamcinolone ophthalmic, triamcinolone, dexamethasone ophthalmic, ceftriaxone, azelastine ophthalmic, prednisolone ophthalmic, Humira
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of Maxidex ophthalmic is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
What should I avoid while using dexamethasone ophthalmic?
Do not share Maxidex with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
What other drugs will affect Maxidex ophthalmic?
Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. 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.
More about Maxidex (dexamethasone ophthalmic)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (4)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: ophthalmic steroids
- Breastfeeding
- En español
Patient resources
Other brands
Ozurdex, Dexycu, Dextenza, Ocu-Dex
Professional resources
Other brands
Related treatment guides
Further information
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 6.02.