Ozurdex

Ozurdex belongs to the pharmacotherapeutic group of local anti-inflammatory agents based on synthetic steroids. Manufacturer - Allergan Pharmaceutical (Ireland).

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Indications Ozurdex

It is used in ophthalmology for obstruction (occlusion) of retinal venous vessels and swelling of the macular region of the eye with the risk of neovascularization, as well as for uveitis (inflammation) of the vitreous body, retina, choroid and optic nerve.

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Release form

Release form: implant containing 0.35 or 0.7 mg of dexamethasone in a plastic applicator for single use.

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Pharmacodynamics

The therapeutic effect of Ozurdex is provided by a synthetic analogue of the adrenal cortex hormone cortisone - dexamethasone (16a-methyl-9a-fluoro-prednisolone), which has pronounced anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-allergic properties, significantly superior to the action of the endogenous hormone.

The anti-inflammatory effect of dexamethasone is associated with its ability to induce the synthesis of lipocortin protein, which blocks lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, which controls the formation of prostaglandins and leukotrienes - highly active regulators of inflammatory processes.

The drug inhibits the division of immune system cells (T-leukocytes and phagocytes) and the secretion of cytokines involved in non-specific defense reactions, and prevents their penetration into the inflammation zone. Dexamethasone inhibits the formation of vascular connective tissue (by suppressing the activity of VEGF - endothelial growth factor), reduces the permeability of capillary walls and the formation of edema, blocks the growth of new vessels (neovascularization) associated with impaired blood supply to eye tissues.

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Pharmacokinetics

Ozurdex is administered into the vitreous body of the eye, which minimizes its systemic absorption. The maximum concentration of Ozurdex in the vitreous body is noted on the 42nd day after administration, decreasing over the next three months by approximately 18 times, remaining in the eye tissues for at least six months.

The active substance of the drug is transformed in tissue cells at the injection site by slow hydrolysis, metabolites are excreted in bile and urine.

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Dosing and administration

Ozurdex is intended for administration into the vitreous body of the vitreal cavity of the eye (intravitreal injection); the procedure is performed under strict aseptic conditions

By an ophthalmologist with the appropriate qualifications - according to indications, depending on the developed treatment tactics.

One applicator can be used only for one eye; using Ozurdexk simultaneously on both eyes is not recommended.

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Use Ozurdex during pregnancy

The use of Ozurdex during pregnancy is not practiced.

Contraindications

Contraindications for Ozurdex include: hypersensitivity to dexamethasone and auxiliary components; threat or presence of acute spectacle or periocular infection (including epithelial herpetic keratitis, chickenpox, mycobacterial infections and fungal diseases); advanced glaucoma; rupture of the posterior lens capsule; aphakia (absence of lens); presence of implanted anterior chamber intraocular lenses; age under 18 years.

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Side effects Ozurdex

Adverse reactions of Ozurdex include headache, eye pain, increased intraocular pressure, conjunctival edema, conjunctival or vitreous hemorrhage, vitreous opacification, vitreous dissection, subcapsular cataract, visual disturbances, abnormal light sensations in the eyes, inflammation of the inner lining of the eyeball (endophthalmitis).

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Overdose

Overdose: According to the manufacturer, there is no information on overdose of the drug.

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Interactions with other drugs

According to the manufacturer of the drug, no studies have been conducted on the interaction of Ozurdex with other drugs. However, it is known that the half-life of dexamethasone when taken orally is reduced by the simultaneous use of barbiturates, phenytoin and rifampicin.

Ozurdex should not be used simultaneously with anticoagulant drugs and drugs to reduce blood clotting.

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Storage conditions

Storage conditions for Ozurdex: the drug must be stored unopened in a place protected from moisture.

Shelf life

The shelf life is 36 months from the date of manufacture.

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