Ozurdex (Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant)

What it is and what it treats

Ozurdex is a biodegradable intravitreal implant containing 0.7 mg of dexamethasone, released in a sustained manner from a polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) polymer matrix over a period of approximately several months. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that suppresses intraocular inflammation and reduces vascular permeability, addressing the underlying mechanisms of macular oedema and posterior segment inflammation.

Regulatory approval covers Ozurdex for macular oedema following retinal vein occlusion (branch or central), for non-infectious inflammation of the posterior segment of the eye (posterior uveitis), and for diabetic macular oedema in patients who are pseudophakic or scheduled for cataract surgery, according to the approved label in each jurisdiction. Approved indications and reimbursement may vary by country.

Because the implant is placed directly into the eye and its effects and risks are specific to the ophthalmic route, treatment decisions are made exclusively by an ophthalmologist, typically a retina specialist, following clinical and imaging assessment of the retina and macula. This monograph is descriptive of the approved product information and is not a treatment recommendation.

Presentations and dosage forms

• 0.7 mg dexamethasone intravitreal implant preloaded in a single-use applicator
• Each applicator delivers one implant via a 22-gauge needle
• Supplied as a sterile, single-use device; not intended for reuse or resterilisation

How it is administered

Ozurdex is administered exclusively by intravitreal injection performed by an ophthalmologist, under sterile, controlled conditions such as an operating theatre or dedicated procedure room, using topical or local anaesthesia. The approved label describes the procedure as an in-office intervention taking only a few minutes, using the single-use preloaded applicator supplied with each implant.

The implant is biodegradable and is not surgically removed; the polymer matrix breaks down gradually as the active substance is released. The label describes sustained drug release over several months, after which re-treatment may be considered by the treating ophthalmologist if clinically indicated and the label permits repeat administration.

Following injection, the label describes monitoring for elevated intraocular pressure and for early signs of intraocular infection (endophthalmitis) in the days following the procedure. Patients receiving Ozurdex require ophthalmic follow-up appointments as directed by the treating specialist; this is not a treatment that is self-administered or managed outside a clinical ophthalmology setting.

Storage and handling

• Store below 30°C in the original sealed sachet
• Do not remove from the sachet until immediately before use
• Each applicator is for single use only and must not be resterilised
• Protect from physical damage to maintain sterility of the sealed unit
• Keep out of reach of children

Side effects

The following reflects the adverse reaction profile described in the approved product information for the dexamethasone intravitreal implant. As with other intravitreal corticosteroid therapies, most reported effects relate directly to the eye and the injection procedure.

Commonly reported

Serious effects requiring medical attention

Patients should seek urgent ophthalmic review if they experience worsening eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision or reduced vision after the procedure, as these can indicate infection or raised intraocular pressure requiring prompt treatment. Suspected adverse reactions should be reported through the applicable national pharmacovigilance scheme.

Ozurdex vs anti-VEGF intravitreal therapy

Ozurdex and anti-VEGF agents such as aflibercept and ranibizumab are both used to treat macular oedema, but act through different mechanisms and dosing intervals. Ozurdex is a corticosteroid delivered as a single sustained-release implant lasting several months, while anti-VEGF agents block vascular endothelial growth factor and are typically given as more frequent intravitreal injections, often monthly or bimonthly according to the approved label.

For macular oedema following retinal vein occlusion, both classes are recognised treatment options; for diabetic macular oedema, anti-VEGF therapy is commonly used first, with Ozurdex considered in pseudophakic patients or those who have not responded adequately to anti-VEGF treatment. For non-infectious posterior uveitis, corticosteroid implants such as Ozurdex have an established role given the anti-inflammatory rather than purely anti-angiogenic mechanism required.

The choice between these therapies depends on the underlying diagnosis, lens status, intraocular pressure history and prior treatment response, and is determined by the treating ophthalmologist. Ozurdex carries a distinct risk profile relating to intraocular pressure and cataract that differs from the risks associated with anti-VEGF agents.

Availability and supply route

Registration of the dexamethasone intravitreal implant varies by country and is subject to approval by the relevant national medicines authority. Ophthalmology units and procurement teams should confirm current registration status and any specific handling requirements for the applicator device before ordering.

Where the implant is not locally registered or immediately available, some healthcare systems permit named-patient supply, allowing a physician to request the device for a specific, identified patient under documented clinical justification and import controls. This route is distinct from general retail supply and requires a valid prescription throughout.

Pharmacy Remedy is a licensed Turkish pharmaceutical wholesaler operating in the B2B channel, supplying hospitals, ophthalmology clinics and other licensed healthcare entities against valid prescriptions and appropriate import documentation. It does not sell medicines or medical devices to members of the public, and all supply is subject to verification of licensure and compliance with destination-country requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Primary sources

• EMA — Ozurdex (dexamethasone) product information
• FDA — Ozurdex prescribing information

Further reading and regulatory routes

• How to verify a medicine is genuine
• Why medicines cost less in Türkiye
• WHO falsified medicine alerts
• Named patient supply
• UAE import guide
• For healthcare professionals
• All medicine monographs

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