– Inactive ingredients include white petrolatum, mineral oil, methylparaben, propylparaben as preservatives (in some formulations) and lanolin oil in some country labels. 

The ointment form (3.5 g tube) — another variant is the ophthalmic suspension / drops version of Maxidex. 

– When the condition improves, dosage may be tapered gradually to once daily. 

– Ointment should be administered after any eye drops if both forms are used. 

– To apply: pull down lower eyelid, place ointment in conjunctival sac, avoid touching tube tip to eye/skin, close eyelids. 

– Blurred vision (temporary)

– Increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma) with prolonged use

– Posterior subcapsular cataracts (with chronic use)

– Secondary ocular infections (bacterial, fungal)

– Delayed wound healing

– Possible corneal thinning or perforation in weakened cornea

– Hypersensitivity reactions

– Rarely, systemic corticosteroid effects (especially with prolonged absorption) 

– Contraindicated in epithelial herpes simplex keratitis, mycobacterial ocular infections, untreated glaucoma, untreated bacterial infections of eye. 

– Prolonged use increases risk of glaucoma, cataract formation, optic nerve damage — intraocular pressure should be monitored when used >10 days. 

– Use with caution in patients with thinning cornea or sclera — risk of perforation.

– Abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use should be avoided — taper dosing. 

– Avoid in pregnancy unless benefit outweighs risk, and in breastfeeding with caution. 

– Avoid contact lens use during therapy. 

– Do not touch ointment tip to any surface to prevent contamination.