Ozurdex

Ozurdex is a medication that can help treat macular edema and uveitis (swelling of the uvea). This prescription product comes in the form of an implant that is injected directly into the eye. Once inside the eye, the implant dissolves, releasing a steroid medication that reduces inflammation. Although it is generally well tolerated, side effects, such as increased eye pressure, are possible.

What Is Ozurdex?

Ozurdex® (dexamethasone intravitreal implant) is a prescription medication used to treat the following eye conditions:
 
  • Macular edema (swelling) from retinal vein occlusion (RVO), which is a blockage of the vein that carries blood out of the eye
  • Swelling of the uvea (the middle layer of the eye), medically known as uveitis.
     
(Click Ozurdex Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Ozurdex?

Ozurdex is made by Allergan, Inc.
 

How Does It Work?

Ozurdex is a tiny, rod-shaped implant that is injected directly into the eye. The implant contains dexamethasone, a corticosteroid (or "steroid") medication. Once inside the eye, the implant slowly dissolves, releasing the medication. Like other steroid medicines, dexamethasone reduces inflammation.
 
Because the implant dissolves inside the eye, it does not need to be removed.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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