Ozurdex (Dexamethasone)

Ozurdex is a corticosteroid implant that delivers medication directly to the eye, addressing several retinal conditions.

• Macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion: reduces swelling and improves visual acuity.
• Non‑infectious intermediate, posterior or pan‑uveitis: provides sustained anti‑inflammatory effect.
• Diabetic macular edema: decreases fluid accumulation and stabilises vision.

• Dexamethasone released from the Ozurdex implant binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to suppress inflammatory cytokines, reduce vascular permeability, and inhibit leukocyte migration, thereby decreasing retinal edema and inflammation.

Ozurdex may cause ocular and systemic adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Elevated intra‑ocular pressure: transient rise that often responds to topical therapy.
• Cataract formation: accelerated progression of lens opacity.
• Conjunctival hemorrhage: minor bleeding at the injection site.
• Vitreous floaters: perception of moving specks in the visual field.
• Mild ocular discomfort: temporary irritation after implantation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Endophthalmitis: severe intra‑ocular infection requiring urgent treatment.
• Persistent elevated intra‑ocular pressure: may need surgical intervention.
• Retinal detachment: separation of the retina from underlying tissue.
• Implant migration: movement of the device to an unintended ocular compartment.

Before using Ozurdex, clinicians should evaluate patient history and ocular status.

• Glaucoma: assess baseline intra‑ocular pressure and monitor regularly.
• Ocular infection: avoid implantation in eyes with active infection.
• Recent ocular surgery: defer implantation until adequate healing.
• Steroid response: watch for rapid pressure spikes after injection.
• Systemic corticosteroid use: consider cumulative steroid exposure.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ozurdex can interact with other ocular and systemic therapies.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic immunosuppressants: may increase risk of infection.
• Potent topical corticosteroids: additive intra‑ocular pressure rise.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiglaucoma medications: may require dose adjustment.
• Anticoagulants antico :  
• Anti‑VEGF agents: timing of administration should be coordinated.
• Intravitreal antibiotics :  
• CYP