Skip to main content

Who can and cannot use dexamethasone eye drops - Brand names: Dexafree, Dropodex, Eythalm, Maxidex

Who can use dexamethasone eye drops

Most adults can use dexamethasone eye drops. Children aged 2 years and over can use them, usually when prescribed by a specialist.

Who may not be able to use dexamethasone eye drops

Dexamethasone eye drops are not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:

  • have ever had an allergic reaction to dexamethasone, or any other medicine
  • have an infection in your eye, or it's producing pus
  • have tuberculosis (TB)
  • have shingles, or another virus infection that could affect the eye
  • have glaucoma
  • have redness in your eyes that's not caused by a known allergy, irritant or other cause such as surgery
  • wear soft contact lenses

Page last reviewed: 21 July 2022
Next review due: 21 July 2025