Methasol-N 0.1%+0.5% (Ophthalmic Ointment)

Indications

• Inflammatory conditions - uveitis, marginal keratitis, allergic conjunctivitis, blepharitis, episcleritis
• Otitis externa
• Inflammatory conditions of the nose

Pharmacology

• Corticosteroid - betamethasone
• Effective in less responsive conditions - psoriasis
• Enhanced anti-inflammatory action due to 16β-methyl group
• Bactericidal antibiotic - neomycin sulfate
• Bactericidal against common bacteria associated with skin infections
• Interferes with initiation complex between mRNA and the 30s subunit

Dosage & Administration

• Eye drops: 1 drop every one or two hours until control, then reduce frequency
• Ear drops: 2 or 3 drops every two or three hours until control, then reduce frequency
• Nose drops: 2 or 3 drops into each nostril two or three times daily
• Eye ointment: Thinly and evenly applied to conjunctival sac at night or 3-4 times daily

Contraindications

• Viral, fungal, tuberculous or purulent conditions
• Contra-indicated if glaucoma is present
• Avoid use in herpetic keratitis (e.g. dendritic ulcer)
• Avoid use in otitis externa with perforated ear drum

Side Effects

• Rare acute sensitization to neomycin after topical application to the eye
• Rise in intra-ocular pressure with corticosteroid-containing eye drops
• Milder rise in intra-ocular pressure with prolonged treatment
• Thinning of the cornea and perforation with use of topical corticosteroids
• Cataract after unduly prolonged treatment with topical corticosteroids

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy Category-Not Classified by FDA
• Topical corticosteroid administration to pregnant animals causes fetal development abnormalities
• Relevance to humans not established
• Avoid extensive use in pregnancy - large amounts or prolonged periods

Precautions & Warnings

• Avoid administering steroids to 'red eyes' without definitive diagnosis
• Regular review for raised intra-ocular pressure or unsuspected infections
• Minimize unnecessary use of neomycin-containing products to prevent neomycin-resistant organisms

Therapeutic Class

• Ophthalmic steroid - antibiotic combined preparations

Storage Conditions

• Store below 25°C

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