corticosteroids-ophthalmic ointment

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat swelling and itching of the eye(s) (ophthalmic) that may be caused by allergies, injury, or infection.

HOW TO USE: Apply this medication to the eye(s) inside the lower eyelid(s) as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. To apply eye ointment, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the ointment tube tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. For best results, this medication must be used routinely as directed. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye ointments. Then tilt your head back, gaze upward, and gently pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the ointment tube directly over the eye and place the prescribed amount of ointment using a slow, sweeping motion. Close your eye(s) for 1 to 2 minutes rolling your eyes in all directions to evenly apply the ointment. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the ointment tube tip. Replace the cap after each use. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least five minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments, to allow the eye drops to enter the eye.

SIDE EFFECTS: Eye burning or stinging, blurred vision, eye swelling, eye pain or redness, or dry eyes may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: rash, sores on the eyes (e.g., ulcers), vision changes. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: glaucoma, cataract surgery, eye infections, any allergies. This medication is not recommended for use if you have the following medical conditions: viral eye infections (e.g., herpes simplex), fungal eye infections, recent removal of an object from your eye (corneal foreign body). This drug may cause blurred vision after treatment; use caution engaging in activities requiring clear vision such as driving or using machinery. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: other eye medications, other corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

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