Ozurdex (dexamethasone intravitreal implant)
Also known as Dexamethasone Implant, Steroid Retina Implant, Intravitreal Steroid Implant, Ozurdex Injection
Bottom Line
Ozurdex is a tiny steroid implant placed inside the eye. It treats certain retinal swelling and back-of-eye inflammation, but pressure and cataract risks matter.
Ozurdex is a dexamethasone intravitreal implant. The label lists it for macular edema after retinal vein occlusion, non-infectious uveitis affecting the back of the eye, and diabetic macular edema 1.
It is placed into the vitreous, the gel-like space inside the eye. The procedure is done under sterile conditions.
The label warns that injections into the eye have been linked with endophthalmitis, eye inflammation, increased eye pressure, and retinal detachment 1.
Cost and Insurance
Ozurdex is usually billed through medical insurance because it is placed during an eye procedure. Prior authorization may be required.
Ask whether the quoted cost includes the implant, injection, imaging, and follow-up checks.
Conditions It Treats
The label lists Ozurdex for macular edema after retinal vein occlusion, non-infectious uveitis affecting the back of the eye, and diabetic macular edema 1.
Your retina or uveitis specialist decides whether a steroid implant is better than other options for your eye.
Safety Limits
The label says Ozurdex is not for active or suspected eye or nearby infection. It is also not for certain advanced glaucoma findings, torn back lens capsule, or allergy to its components 1.
Tell your specialist about glaucoma, prior eye infections, cataract surgery, lens capsule problems, and steroid pressure response.
Side Effects
The label warns that eye injections have been linked with endophthalmitis, eye inflammation, increased eye pressure, and retinal detachments 1.
Call urgently for worsening pain, worsening redness, light sensitivity, new floaters, discharge, or decreased vision.
Common Questions About Ozurdex
Next Steps
- 1Ask whether your diagnosis matches a label-listed Ozurdex use.
- 2Tell your specialist about glaucoma, eye infection history, and lens capsule problems.
- 3Confirm the pressure and infection follow-up schedule before injection.
- 4Call urgently for worsening pain, worsening redness, light sensitivity, new floaters, or decreased vision.
- 5Ask whether Ozurdex, anti-VEGF injections, laser, or another steroid option fits your eye.
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