Dexamethasone eye drops
NHS information about dexamethasone eye drops, including what they’re used for, who can use them, how to take them and side effects.
This information is about dexamethasone for your eyes. There's separate information about other types of dexamethasone.
What dexamethasone eye drops are for
Dexamethasone eye drops are a type of medicine called a steroid (corticosteroid).
Steroid medicines help reduce pain, redness and swelling (inflammation). They're different to anabolic steroids, which some people use illegally to help build bigger muscles.
Dexamethasone eye drops are used to treat pain, redness and swelling in your eyes. This can be caused by:
- eye conditions, such as uveitis
- surgery
- injury
You can also get dexamethasone eye drops that are combined with an antibiotic medicine. These are sometimes used if you also have an infection in your eye.
How to use dexamethasone eye drops
Dexamethasone eye drops usually come in:
- a small bottle with a dropper you squeeze to put the drops in your eye
- single-use droppers that you throw away after each use
Your doctor will tell you how many eye drops to use each day and how long to use them. The usual dose for adults is 1 drop, 4 to 6 times a day.
To use dexamethasone eye drops:
- wash your hands before you put your eye drops in and follow the instructions that come with them
- when you've put the drops in your eye, close your eye and gently press your finger into the corner of your eye (by your nose) for at least 1 minute – this helps keep the drops in your eye and lowers the risk of some side effects
You may only need to use them for a few days, but sometimes you may need to use them for a few weeks or more.
You might need to have your eye pressure checked regularly if you're using dexamethasone eye drops for more than a week and you have certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma.
Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to use them or if your symptoms do not improve or get worse.
Side effects of dexamethasone eye drops
Like all medicines, dexamethasone eye drops can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Possible side effects of dexamethasone eye drops include:
- irritation, burning or itching in your eye
- blurred or cloudy vision
- an unusual taste in your mouth
If you have blurred vision after using dexamethasone eye drops, do not drive, ride a bike or use machinery until you can see clearly.
More about side effects
These are not all the side effects of dexamethasone eye drops.
For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website
Who can and cannot use dexamethasone eye drops
Most adults and some children can use dexamethasone eye drops. They’re sometimes prescribed for children.
Dexamethasone eye drops are not suitable for everyone. For example, they may not be suitable if:
- you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from using dexamethasone, or other ingredients used in the eye drops
- you have an eye infection
- you have glaucoma
Before using dexamethasone eye drops, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions.
Breastfeeding and dexamethasone eye drops
Dexamethasone eye drops can be used while breastfeeding but talk to your doctor first.
It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects from medicines you're using but speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby.
Pregnancy and dexamethasone eye drops
Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or you get pregnant while using dexamethasone eye drops.
Dexamethasone eye drops can be used during pregnancy if needed. Your doctor will discuss with you the risks and benefits of using them while you're pregnant.
Using dexamethasone eye drops with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with dexamethasone eye drops.
These include eye drops that contain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Before using dexamethasone eye drops, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.
Food, drink and alcohol with dexamethasone eye drops
You can eat and drink as normal while using dexamethasone eye drops.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice
