Ozurdeq

Ozurdex belongs to the pharmacotherapeutic group of local anti-inflammatory drugs based on synthetic steroids. The manufacturer is Allergan Pharmaceutical (Ireland).

[1], [2], [3]

Indications Ozurdeq

It is used in ophthalmology for the obstruction (occlusion) of the venous vessels of the retina and the arisen edema of the macular area of the eye with the threat of neovascularization, as well as for the uveitis (inflammation) of the vitreous, retina, choroid and optic nerve.

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Release form

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

[5]

Pharmacodynamics

The therapeutic effect of Ozurdex provides a synthetic analogue of the cortisone adrenal gland hormone dexamethasone (16a-methyl-9a-fluor-prednisolone), which has a pronounced anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and antiallergic qualities significantly superior to the action of endogenous hormone.

The anti-inflammatory effect of dexamethasone is related to its ability to induce lipocortin protein synthesis, which blocks the lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A 2, which controls the formation of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, highly active regulators of inflammatory processes.

The drug delays the division of cells of the immune system (T-leukocytes and phagocytes) and the secretion of cytokines involved in nonspecific protective reactions, and also 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 permeability of capillary walls and edema formation, blocks the growth of new vessels (neovascularization) associated with impaired blood flow to the eye tissues.

[6], [7], [8], [9]

Pharmacokinetics

Ozurdex is introduced into the vitreous of the eye, which minimizes its systemic absorption. The maximum concentration of Ozurdex in the vitreous humor is observed on the 42nd day after administration, decreasing by about 18 times during the next three months, remaining in the eye tissues for at least six months.

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

[10], [11], [12]

Dosing and administration

Ozurdex is intended for intravitreal injection into the vitreous body of the vitreal cavity of the eye; the procedure is carried out in the conditions of the strictest asepsis

Doctor-ophthalmologist of appropriate qualification - according to indications depending on the developed tactics of treatment.

One applicator can be used only for one eye, the use of Ozurdeksk at both eyes is not recommended.

[16], [17]

Use Ozurdeq during pregnancy

Use of Ozurdex during pregnancy is not practiced.

Contraindications

Among the contraindications Ozurdeksa noted: hypersensitivity to dexamethasone and auxiliary components; threat or presence of acute spectacle or periocular infection (including epithelial herpetic keratitis, chicken pox, mycobacterial infections and fungal diseases); advanced glaucoma; rupture of the posterior capsule of the lens; aphakia (absence of the lens); presence of implanted anterior chamber intraocular lenses; age to 18 years.

[13]

Side effects Ozurdeq

Adverse reactions of Ozurdex include headache, eye pain, increased intraocular pressure, edema of the conjunctiva, conjunctival or vitreous hemorrhage, opacity of the vitreous, vitreous stratification, subcapsular cataract, visual impairment, abnormal visual sensations in the eyes, inflammation of the inner membranes of the ophthalmic apple (endophthalmitis).

[14], [15]

Overdose

Overdose: according to the manufacturer's information, there is no information about an overdose of the drug.

[18], [19]

Interactions with other drugs

According to the manufacturer of the drug, no interaction studies of Ozurdex with other drugs have been conducted. But it is known that the half-life of dexamethasone when ingested decreases with simultaneous use of barbiturates, phenytoin and rifampicin.

Ozirdex should not be used concomitantly with anticoagulant drugs and drugs to reduce blood coagulability.

[20], [21]

Storage conditions

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

Shelf life

Shelf life is 36 months from the date of issue. 

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