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OZURDEX® is an intravitreal implant containing 0.7 mg (700 mcg) dexamethasone in the NOVADUR® solid polymer drug delivery system. OZURDEX® is preloaded into a single-use, specially designed DDS® applicator to facilitate injection of the rod-shaped implant directly into the vitreous. The NOVADUR® system contains poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) PLGA intravitreal polymer matrix without a preservative. The chemical name for dexamethasone is Pregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione, 9-fluoro-11,17,21-trihydroxy-16-methyl-, (11β,16α)-. Its structural formula is:

MW 392.47;      molecular formula: C₂₂H₂₉FO₅.

Dexamethasone occurs as a white to cream-colored crystalline powder having not more than a slight odor, and is practically insoluble in water and very soluble in alcohol.

The PLGA matrix slowly degrades to lactic acid and glycolic acid.

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/14/2012
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.