Dextenza is administered by a healthcare professional and is typically inserted into the patient’s eye in a clinical setting. The process is relatively simple and does not require surgery. The doctor will place the small punctal plug in the tear duct, a natural opening in the eye that allows tears to drain away.

The plug is designed to remain in place for up to 30 days, slowly releasing dexamethasone as it dissolves. The patient does not need to do anything once the plug is in place, although they may be asked to follow up with their healthcare provider to monitor progress and ensure that the plug remains in place.

Since Dextenza is administered in the eye, it is important to avoid rubbing the eye after the procedure to prevent dislodging the plug. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eye after the insertion to ensure that it heals properly and that the treatment is effective.

Dextenza works by delivering a corticosteroid (dexamethasone) directly to the site of inflammation in the eye. Dexamethasone is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that works by inhibiting the immune system’s response to inflammation. When inflammation occurs in the eye, it can cause redness, swelling, pain, and other symptoms that can interfere with the healing process after surgery. Dextenza helps to reduce this inflammation, promoting a smoother and faster recovery.

The Dextenza punctal plug works by slowly releasing the medication over an extended period. The drug is released directly to the affected area within the eye, where it can provide targeted relief. The plug itself is small and is inserted into the tear duct of the eye. Since it is placed near the tear ducts, it avoids the potential side effects associated with other methods of delivering corticosteroids, such as pills or drops, which can affect the entire body.

By delivering the medication right where it’s needed, Dextenza helps to reduce inflammation while avoiding the common systemic side effects that can occur when corticosteroids are taken orally or as eye drops. This localized approach also minimizes the risk of complications, making it an effective option for post-surgical care.

While Dextenza is generally well-tolerated, like any medication, it may cause side effects in some patients. The most common side effects associated with Dextenza are related to the eye and may include:

• Eye irritation
• Discomfort or a sensation of a foreign body in the eye
• Increased pressure in the eye (ocular hypertension)
• Infection in the eye
• Eye redness or inflammation

Most of these side effects are mild and resolve on their own as the healing process progresses. However, it’s important to inform your doctor if you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms, as some side effects may require further treatment or monitoring.

In rare cases, corticosteroid medications like Dextenza can increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma, particularly if used for an extended period. Your doctor will monitor your eye health closely throughout the treatment period to ensure any potential problems are caught early.

Before using Dextenza, it is important to consider certain precautions. Dextenza should be used with caution in patients who have a history of:

• Eye infections: If you have had an eye infection or are currently dealing with one, talk to your doctor before using this medication, as corticosteroids can sometimes worsen infections.
• Glaucoma: If you have glaucoma or a family history of glaucoma, your doctor may want to monitor your eye pressure closely, as corticosteroids can increase the risk of developing this condition.
• Cataracts: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of cataract formation, so it’s important for patients to discuss their history of eye conditions with their healthcare provider.

It’s also important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the care of the eye following Dextenza insertion. Proper aftercare is essential to avoid complications and ensure a smooth healing process.

Dextenza typically has fewer interactions with other medications compared to other forms of corticosteroids because it delivers the drug directly to the eye. However, it’s important for the healthcare provider to be aware of any other medications the patient is taking. Patients should inform their doctor if they are using other ocular medications, as these might interact with the corticosteroid release and affect the overall outcome of the treatment.

In addition, patients who are taking other corticosteroids or medications that affect the immune system should discuss their treatment plan with their doctor, as combining corticosteroids can lead to an increased risk of side effects.

The dosage of Dextenza is pre-determined based on the surgery you are recovering from. Your doctor will administer the medication in the form of a single punctal plug. Once the plug is inserted, it will begin releasing the medication slowly over the course of 30 days. No further doses are needed during this time. After 30 days, the plug will dissolve naturally, and the treatment will conclude.

It’s essential that you do not attempt to remove or adjust the plug yourself. If you experience any issues with the plug, such as discomfort, or if it appears to have come out of place, contact your healthcare provider.

Dextenza is a prescription-only medication, meaning it can only be obtained with a prescription from a healthcare provider. Your doctor will determine whether Dextenza is appropriate for you based on your surgical history, the type of surgery you have undergone, and your overall health. Only a healthcare professional can insert the punctal plug, so it must be done in a clinical setting.

1. What is Dextenza?
   Dextenza is an intracanalicular insert that delivers dexamethasone for eye inflammation.

2. What is Dextenza used to treat?
   It is used to reduce ocular inflammation and pain following eye surgery.

3. How is Dextenza administered?
   It is inserted into the tear duct (punctal canaliculus) by a healthcare professional.

4. How long does Dextenza release medication?
   It gradually releases dexamethasone over approximately 30 days.

5. Is Dextenza a steroid?
   Yes, it delivers the corticosteroid dexamethasone.

6. Does Dextenza replace eye drops?
   Yes, it serves as a sustained-release alternative to frequent steroid eye drops.

7. Is Dextenza safe?
   It is generally safe when inserted by a healthcare provider, but may cause irritation or eye discomfort.

8. Can Dextenza cause increased eye pressure?
   Yes, like other steroids, it may increase intraocular pressure in some patients.

9. Who should not use Dextenza?
   Patients with active eye infections or hypersensitivity to dexamethasone.

10. Can Dextenza fall out of the eye?
    Yes, there is a small risk of spontaneous extrusion.

11. Do patients need to remove Dextenza?
    No, it dissolves naturally over time.

12. Is Dextenza used for chronic eye inflammation?
    No, it is intended for short-term post-surgical inflammation.

13. Can Dextenza be used in both eyes?
    Yes, but each eye requires a separate insertion.

14. How effective is Dextenza compared to steroid eye drops?
    Studies show similar efficacy with improved compliance.

15. Can Dextenza be used with other eye medications?
    Yes, but always follow ophthalmologist’s instructions.

16. What should a patient do if they feel pain after insertion?
    Contact their healthcare provider as it may indicate irritation or displacement.

17. Who typically receives Dextenza?
    Patients undergoing cataract surgery or other ocular procedures.

18. How is the insertion procedure done?
    It is a quick, in-office procedure using a specialized applicator.

19. Is there any systemic absorption from Dextenza?
    Minimal systemic absorption is expected due to localized delivery.

20. Does insurance cover Dextenza?
    Coverage varies; patients should check with their insurance provider.