Side effects

Possible side effects of eye ointments with cortisone can generally be allergic reactions such as skin and conjunctivitis. The eyeball may become prominent. Some people have reported stinging and burning or weeping blisters, especially if the eye ointment was used after cataract surgery.

In addition, a poorer supply of the cornea and corneal damage could be observed. All these side effects are rather rare. In some cases, damage to the cornea and sclera of the eye could occur.

Delayed wound healing has been observed as another side effect. A drooping of the upper eyelid and the dilation of the pupil occurred in unknown numbers after application of the eye ointment with cortisone. Fungal infections of the cornea were frequently developed after long-term use.

Depending on the preparation, an increase in intraocular pressure occurred rarely or often. In addition, limited visual acuity, damage to the optic nerve and a restriction of the visual field were observed with existing predisposition. Clouding of the lens occurred rarely.

Interactions

Interactions with other substances are very rare in the case of external, local application of cortisone preparations, such as eye ointments containing cortisone.

When must an eye ointment with cortisone not be used?

Eye ointments with cortisone must not be used (are contraindicated) if allergies to the ingredients or components of the ointment are known. Eye ointments with cortisone are contraindicated for superficial herpes simplex infections of the cornea. Eye ointments with cortisone may only be used under certain conditions and in combination with antibiotic agents for bacterial, viral and fungal inflammation of the eye.

Otherwise there is a risk that inflammation may be aggravated. Eye ointments with cortisone must also not be used for ulcers or injuries to the cornea of the eye. In addition, they are contraindicated in dry eyes, as well as in cases of already existing increased eye pressure and high short-sightedness. Furthermore, the use of eye ointments with cortisone should be avoided in the case of ocular tuberculosis.

Dosage

As a rule, about a 0.5 cm long strip of the respective eye ointment with cortisone should be applied to the eye. At best, the eye ointment is applied before going to bed. The exact duration of treatment should be discussed individually with the doctor. In most cases the application of eye ointments with cortisone should not exceed 14 days. If the dosage is too strong or too weak, this should be discussed with the doctor.

Price

The price of eye ointments with cortisone depends on the preparation and manufacturer. The prices can usually vary between 5 and 25 euros. Non-prescription eye ointments with cortisone must always be paid for by the patient.

Alternatives to eye ointments with cortisone

Depending on the cause and extent of the eye complaints, alternative creams and agents without cortisone may be helpful. However, caution is required here. The more precisely the cause is known, the better an effective alternative can be considered together with the doctor.