Why is this drug prescribed?

Neodecadron is a steroid and antibiotic combination that is used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in which there is also a bacterial infection or the possibility of a bacterial infection. Dexamethasone (the steroid) decreases inflammation. Neomycin, the antibiotic, kills some of the more common bacteria.

Most important fact about this drug

Prolonged use of Neodecadron may increase the possibility of developing additional eye infections. It could also cause vision problems, raise the pressure inside your eyes, and even lead to glaucoma and cataracts. If you take this medication for 10 days or longer, your doctor will routinely check your eye pressure.

How should you use this medication?

Neodecadron Ophthalmic Solution

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before use.
2. Tilt your head backward or lie down and gaze upward.
3. Gently pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch.
4. Drop the medicine in the pouch and gently close your eyes. Try not to blink.
5. Keep your eye closed for a couple of minutes. Do not rub the eye.
6. Do not touch the applicator tip or dropper to any surface (including the eye).

Neodecadron Ophthalmic Ointment

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before use.
2. Hold the ointment tube in your hand for a few minutes to warm the ointment and make it flow more smoothly.
3. Tilt your head backward or lie down and gaze upward.
4. Gently pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch.
5. Squeeze the tube gently, and with a sweeping motion along the inside of the lower lid, apply 0.25 to 0.5 inch of ointment.
6. Close your eyes for a couple of minutes and roll them in all directions.

--If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never try to "catch up" by doubling the dose.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Protect solution from light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, notify your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe to continue using Neodecadron.

• Side effects may include:
  Allergic skin reactions, cataracts, delay in healing of wounds, development of additional eye infections, increased eye pressure with possible glaucoma and optic nerve damage

Why should this drug not be prescribed?

Neodecadron should be avoided if you have an inflammation of the cornea (the transparent surface of the eye); chickenpox; or other bacterial, fungal, or viral eye infections. Do not use Neodecadron if you have ever had an allergic reaction or are sensitive to any of its ingredients.

Neodecadron solution contains a sulfite that can cause an allergic reaction in susceptible people.

Special warnings about this medication

Neodecadron is absorbed into your bloodstream when applied to your eye. Its steroid component can lower your resistance to infection and it can prolong or worsen the severity of many viral infections of the eye. Diseases such as measles and chickenpox can be serious and even fatal in adults. If you are using Neodecadron and are exposed to chickenpox or measles, notify your doctor immediately.

Remember that using Neodecadron for a long time may result in increased pressure in the eye, including glaucoma, as well as vision changes and cataracts. Long-term use also increases the chances of developing an additional eye infection. If you use Neodecadron for 10 days or longer, your doctor should check your eye pressure regularly.

If you undergo eye surgery, sustain an eye injury, or develop an eye infection, check with your doctor immediately.

Eye medications can become contaminated if they are not used properly, causing dangerous infections. Do not let the tip of the container touch anything. If your eyes continue to be red, irritated, swollen, or painful, or if they get worse, notify your doctor immediately.

A preservative in Neodecadron solution can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. If you wear contacts, wait at least 15 minutes after using the solution before you insert your lenses.

If you develop a skin rash or any other allergic reaction, stop using the medication and contact your doctor.

If you have had cataract surgery, Neodecadron may delay healing.

Neodecadron may cause temporary blurring of vision or stinging.

This prescription should not be renewed unless your doctor has re-examined your eyes.

If your signs and symptoms have not improved after two days, your doctor will reconsider your treatment.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

No interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Neodecadron has not been adequately studied during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Steroids can appear in breast milk. Your doctor may advise you not to breastfeed while you are using Neodecadron.

Recommended dosage

The length of treatment varies with the type of condition being treated. Treatment can take a few days or several weeks.

NEODECADRON OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT

NEODECADRON OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect a Neodecadron overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.