Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant 0.7 mg

How it works

The biodegradable implant gradually releases dexamethasone within the eye, suppressing inflammation and reducing vascular permeability to lessen retinal oedema.

Prescribing in practice

• It must be administered by an appropriately trained ophthalmologist under aseptic conditions, with patients warned to report symptoms of endophthalmitis or retinal detachment without delay.
• It commonly raises intraocular pressure and accelerates cataract formation, and is contraindicated in active or suspected ocular or periocular infection and in advanced glaucoma.
• Caution is required in eyes with a compromised posterior lens capsule, as the implant may migrate into the anterior chamber.

Monitoring

Monitor intraocular pressure and assess for infection, raised pressure and lens changes following injection.

Counselling the patient

• Seek urgent ophthalmic care if you develop eye pain, increasing redness, reduced vision or increased sensitivity to light.
• Floaters may increase temporarily after the injection.
• Attend all scheduled reviews so your eye pressure and retina can be checked.

Evidence & guidelines

Use in retinal vein occlusion-related and diabetic macular oedema and non-infectious uveitis is supported by NICE technology appraisals and randomised trial evidence.