Why is this medication prescribed?

Dexasporin is a combination medication that contains two active ingredients: dexamethasone and neomycin sulfate. It’s primarily prescribed as an ophthalmic (eye) solution or ointment for treating certain eye conditions, particularly those caused by bacterial infections or inflammation.

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that helps to reduce inflammation, swelling, redness, and itching in the eye. Neomycin sulfate is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Together, these medications can effectively treat conditions like bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other inflammatory eye conditions associated with bacterial infections.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a general guide on how Dexasporin is typically used:

• Wash Hands: Before applying Dexasporin, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent contamination.
• Preparation: If you’re using the ophthalmic solution, shake the bottle well before use to ensure the contents are properly mixed.
• Application: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper or ointment tube directly over the eye and apply the prescribed number of drops or a thin ribbon of ointment into the pocket. Be careful not to touch the dropper tip or tube opening to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• Close Eye: After applying the medication, close your eye gently for a few moments to allow the medication to spread evenly over the surface of the eye.
• Avoid Contamination: Avoid touching the tip of the dropper or the ointment tube to any surface, including your eye, to prevent contamination. Also, avoid wearing contact lenses while using Dexasporin unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Frequency: Use Dexasporin as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, it’s applied several times a day, depending on the severity of the condition and your doctor’s instructions. Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule strictly.
• Duration: Use Dexasporin for the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve before the treatment is complete. Discontinuing the medication prematurely can lead to a recurrence of the infection or inflammation.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Dexasporin. You can reinsert your contact lenses 15 minutes after applying the medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Storage: Store Dexasporin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

It’s essential to use Dexasporin exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the best possible outcome and to minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Dexasporin, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

• Ear Infections: In some cases, Dexasporin may be prescribed for outer ear infections (otitis externa) caused by bacteria. The medication can help treat the infection and reduce inflammation in the ear canal.
• Skin Infections: Dexasporin ointment may also be used to treat certain bacterial skin infections, particularly those susceptible to neomycin sulfate.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergy: Before using Dexasporin, inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to dexamethasone, neomycin, or other medications. Allergic reactions to Dexasporin can range from mild skin irritation to severe reactions requiring medical attention.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Dexasporin with your doctor. While corticosteroids like dexamethasone are generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, neomycin may pose risks, especially if absorbed systemically.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Dexasporin eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes after applying the drops before reinserting your lenses. Contact lenses can absorb preservatives in the eye drops, which may cause irritation.
• Medical History: Inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have any other eye conditions, such as glaucoma or herpes simplex keratitis. Dexasporin may not be suitable for individuals with certain pre-existing eye conditions.
• Drug Interactions: Tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, as Dexasporin may interact with certain drugs. For example, corticosteroids like dexamethasone can interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, or immunosuppressants.
• Use in Children: Dexasporin may be prescribed for children, but the dosage and frequency will be adjusted based on the child’s age and weight. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when administering Dexasporin to children.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may monitor you closely while using Dexasporin, especially if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or if you are using the medication for an extended period.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidelines for using Dexasporin, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have about its use or potential side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms while using Dexasporin, contact your doctor promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Dexasporin. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall health, which may aid in recovery from the underlying condition being treated.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Dexasporin eye drops or ointment, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dexasporin, like any medication, can potentially cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Dexasporin may include:

• Eye Irritation: Mild burning, stinging, or irritation in the eye where the medication is applied.
• Blurred Vision: Temporary blurring of vision immediately after applying the eye drops or ointment.
• Dryness: Some individuals may experience dryness or discomfort in the eye.
• Redness: Temporary redness of the eye may occur, especially with prolonged use.
• Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) may occur in some individuals.
• Eye Discomfort: Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation) or mild discomfort.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Dexasporin can occur but are relatively uncommon. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Skin Reactions: When used for skin infections, Dexasporin ointment may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
• Ear Discomfort: For ear infections, some individuals may experience temporary discomfort or irritation in the ear canal.
• Prolonged Use: Prolonged use of Dexasporin, particularly in the eye, may lead to secondary infections or fungal overgrowth.
• Systemic Effects: Although rare, systemic absorption of neomycin can occur, potentially leading to systemic side effects such as kidney damage or hearing loss, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with compromised kidney function.

It’s essential to report any persistent or severe side effects to your doctor promptly. Additionally, if you experience any unexpected symptoms while using Dexasporin, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Remember that this list does not cover all possible side effects. If you have concerns about potential side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while using Dexasporin, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Dexasporin eye drops, ointment, or ear drops at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, where moisture can affect the medication’s stability.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused Dexasporin medication properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or local waste disposal company. Follow any specific disposal instructions provided with the medication or consult your pharmacist for guidance on safe disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In Case of Emergency: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, or loss of consciousness after using Dexasporin, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room for assistance.
• Overdose Symptoms: Overdose symptoms may include excessive or prolonged use of Dexasporin leading to systemic effects, such as increased risk of side effects associated with corticosteroids like dexamethasone or neomycin toxicity.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Use Dexasporin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use more or less of it or use it more frequently than prescribed. Using it incorrectly or for longer than prescribed can increase the risk of side effects and may not effectively treat your condition.
• Regular Follow-ups: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor while using Dexasporin, especially if you’re using it for an extended period. Your doctor may want to monitor your progress and assess the effectiveness of the medication.
• Avoid Contamination: To prevent contamination, do not touch the tip of the dropper or tube to any surface, including your eye or ear, and avoid letting the tip come into contact with your hands. Close the container tightly after each use.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Dexasporin out of reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion or misuse of the medication can be harmful.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, about all the medications you’re currently using, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal supplements or vitamins.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Dexasporin with your doctor. It’s essential to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant against the benefits of treatment.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidelines for using Dexasporin, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about its use or any aspect of your treatment.