Blephamide

The typical dosage of Blephamide depends on the form and the severity of the condition:

• Ophthalmic Suspension (Eye Drops): Usually, 1 to 2 drops are instilled into the affected eye(s) every 4 hours during the day. In more severe cases, the drops may be used more frequently during the first 24 to 48 hours.
• Ophthalmic Ointment: A small amount is typically applied to the affected eye(s) 3 to 4 times daily or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Blephamide is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to sulfacetamide, prednisolone, or any other component of the formulation.
• Viral, fungal, or mycobacterial infections of the eye, as corticosteroids can exacerbate these infections.
• Tuberculosis of the eye.
• Acute purulent untreated bacterial infections of the eye, as corticosteroids can mask the symptoms and delay healing.

Patients using Blephamide should be advised to:

• Use the medication exactly as prescribed and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the recurrence of the infection.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses while using Blephamide, especially if the eye is infected, as the medication contains preservatives that can be absorbed by the lenses.
• Be aware of potential side effects, such as increased eye pressure, cataract formation, or delayed wound healing, particularly with prolonged use.
• Inform their healthcare provider if they experience any severe eye pain, vision changes, or if symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment.
• Avoid touching the dropper or ointment tip to any surface to prevent contamination and potential eye infections.

• Mild stinging or burning in the eyes
• Temporary blurred vision after applying the ointment
• Redness or irritation of the eyes
• Increased sensitivity to light

• Increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to glaucoma with prolonged use
• Cataract formation with long-term use
• Delayed wound healing or secondary eye infections
• Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing

Increased Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma: Prolonged use of corticosteroids like Prednisolone can lead to increased intraocular pressure, potentially causing glaucoma. Patients using Blephamide for extended periods should have their intraocular pressure monitored regularly.

Cataract Formation: Long-term use of corticosteroids can also lead to the development of cataracts, particularly posterior subcapsular cataracts.

Masking of Infections: Corticosteroids can mask the symptoms of an infection and delay healing, making it difficult to detect worsening of the condition. Patients should be closely monitored, especially if there is no improvement or if the condition worsens.

Blephamide may interact with other eye medications or treatments. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are using other eye drops or ointments to ensure safe and effective use. Specific drug interactions include:

• Other corticosteroids: May increase the risk of side effects such as increased intraocular pressure.
• Antiviral or antifungal eye medications: Concomitant use should be carefully monitored, as corticosteroids can interfere with the action of these medications.

Alternative treatments for inflammatory ocular conditions with a bacterial component include:

• Other combination antibiotic-steroid eye drops: Such as Tobradex (tobramycin and dexamethasone) or Maxitrol (neomycin, polymyxin B, and dexamethasone).
• Topical antibiotics: Such as erythromycin or gentamicin, for bacterial eye infections without the need for a corticosteroid.
• Topical corticosteroids: Such as prednisolone acetate alone, for inflammatory conditions without bacterial infection.

The choice of treatment depends on the specific condition, the patient’s response to previous treatments, and any underlying medical conditions.