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Corticosteroids - topical (skin), nose, and eyes - Management
What are the adverse effects of corticosteroid eye preparations?
- Local adverse effects
- Corneal ulceration and scarring — can occur in people with ocular herpes simplex, so corticosteroid eye preparations should be avoided in such cases.
- Increased intraocular pressure — screen regularly.
- Cataract formation and thinning of the cornea and sclera — if the person is receiving long-term corticosteroid eye preparations, refer them to the community optician to screen for cataract formation, ocular hypertension, and other eye problems.
- Blurring of vision — this is transient and clears within minutes.
- Increased susceptibility to microbial infections and uveitis.
- Systemic adverse effects
- Systemic adverse effects are rare but may occur, particularly with high doses prescribed for prolonged periods.
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