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Brand Name
Decadron
Pronunciation
Dex-a-METH-a-zone
Common Drug Name
Dexamthasone ophthalmic solution
What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Solution?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition.
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has glaucoma, diabetes mellitus, Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism), or could be pregnant.
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications (especially eye medications) or supplements your pet is taking. Also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
What is the most important information I should know?
Follow your veterinarian's directions and give the full course of Dexamethasone ophthalmic solution as prescribed. Do not discontinue use suddenly unless directed by your veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian if the animal's condition does not improve or worsens after beginning treatment with Dexamethasone ophthalmic solution. Have your pet's eyes re-examined periodically as recommended by your veterinarian. Do not touch the dropper portion of the bottle to any surface including hands and eyes.
Who should not take it?
Do not use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to any of the ingredients.
Do not use in fungal or viral infections of the eye before healing has started. Also do not use if an ulcer on the eye could be present, since it could cause the ulcer to worsen or rupture. Therefore, an ophthalmic exam by a veterinarian is necessary before using this medication.
Prolonged use may result in a serious bacterial or fungal infection.
Prevent ingestion of the medication. If ingested at high doses or for extended periods, corticosteroids can cause premature birth. In dogs, rabbits, and rodents, corticosteroids can cause birth defects.
Use with caution in animals with diabetes mellitus or Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism).
Consult with your veterinarian regarding the eye examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with corticosteroid ophthalmic preparations.
What side effects may be seen when taking Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Solution?
Side effects are unusual with this medication. Rarely, pressure may increase inside the eye, cataracts may form, or a perforation of the cornea may occur. Other, more common side effects may include burning, stinging, itching, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light.
If ingested, the most common side effect of corticosteroids is an increase in the amount of drinking and urinating. Less commonly may see an increased appetite and weight gain, panting, diarrhea, vomiting, and behavior changes.
How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Adverse reactions and toxicities are unlikely if used according to directions. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I avoid when giving my pet Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Solution?
Consult your veterinarian before using corticosteroid ophthalmic preparations with other eye medications since interactions may occur.
Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the
Patient Information Sheet on this medication. | 
