Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Suspension

Dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension is an eye drop prescribed to reduce inflammation of the eyes and eyelids caused by certain eye infections or injuries. This medicine is typically used in the affected eye four to six times daily. Although most people tolerate this medication well, side effects may still occur and can include temporary eye symptoms, such as burning, stinging, and redness.

What Is Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Suspension?

Dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension (Maxidex®) is a prescription eye medication used to treat swelling of the eyes and eyelids caused by certain infections, injuries, or eye conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids, or just "steroids" for short.
 
(Click What Is Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Suspension Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension can cause side effects.
 However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Some of the more common, bothersome side effects of dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension may include temporary eye symptoms, such as:
 
  • Burning
  • Stinging
  • Redness
  • Blurred vision.
 
(Click Side Effects of Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Suspension to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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