EYE LUBRICANT - OPHTHALMIC

EYE LUBRICANT - OPHTHALMIC

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION:

GENERIC NAME(S): carboxymethylcellulose sodium

Uses

USES: This medication is used to relieve dry, irritated eyes. Common causes for dry eyes include wind, sun, heating/air conditioning, computer use/reading, and certain medications. This product may contain 1 or more of the following ingredients: carboxymethylcellulose, dextran, glycerin, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polysorbate, polyvinyl alcohol, povidone, or propylene glycol, among others. Eye lubricants keep the eye moist, help to protect the eye from injury and infection, and decrease symptoms of dry eyes such as burning, itching, and feeling as if something is in the eye.


How to use EYE LUBRICANT - OPHTHALMIC

HOW TO USE: Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use a solution that has changed color or is cloudy. Certain brands (containing glycerin with polysorbates, among other ingredients) may have a milky appearance. This is okay as long as the solution does not change color. Some eye drops need to be shaken before use. Check the label to see if you should shake your product before using. Usually, drops may be used as often as needed. Ointments are usually used 1 to 2 times daily as needed. If using an ointment once a day, it may be best to use it at bedtime. To apply eye ointment/drops/gels: Wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the dropper or top of the ointment tube or let it touch your eye. Always replace the cap tightly after each use. Tilt your head back, look up, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. For drops/gels, place the dropper directly over the eye and squeeze out 1 or 2 drops as needed. Look down and gently close your eye for 1 or 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye. For an ointment, hold the tube directly over the eye and gently squeeze a small strip (one-fourth of an inch or roughly 6 millimeters) of ointment into the pouch. Release the eyelid, close the eye, and slowly roll your eye in all directions to spread the medication. Blot away any extra ointment from around the eye with a clean tissue. If you are also using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using most kinds of eye lubricants. Ask your doctor or pharmacist when you may replace your contact lenses. There are a few types of eye lubricants (some that contain polysorbates) that can be used while wearing contact lenses. Check the package to see if you can wear your contact lenses while using your product. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 3 days.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Vision may be temporarily blurred when this product is first used. Also, minor burning/stinging/irritation may temporarily occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: eye pain, change in vision, continued eye redness/irritation. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. If you have any health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product. This product (especially ointments) may temporarily cause blurred vision right after being placed in the eye(s). Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: If you are using this product under your doctor's direction, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other eye medications. This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for EYE LUBRICANT - OPHTHALMIC

An eye lubricant, also known as artificial tears, is a solution that helps moisturize and lubricate the eyes. It is used to alleviate symptoms of dryness, irritation, and discomfort in the eyes.

Eye lubricants work by adding moisture to the eyes and forming a protective film on the surface of the eyes. This film helps to retain moisture, improve lubrication, and prevent further dryness.

Yes, there are specific eye lubricants that are safe to use with contact lenses. These lubricants are generally labeled as "contact lens compatible" or "for use with contact lenses." It is important to choose the right lubricant that is suitable for your type of contact lenses.

The frequency of using eye lubricants depends on the severity of your symptoms and your personal comfort. It is typically recommended to use them as needed, whenever you experience dryness or discomfort in your eyes. Some people may need to use them multiple times a day, while others may only need occasional use.

Yes, eye lubricants can provide temporary relief for allergy-related eye symptoms such as itching, redness, and irritation. However, they do not treat the underlying cause of the allergies. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a doctor or an allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Yes, eye lubricants are generally safe to use and are available over-the-counter without a prescription. However, it is always advisable to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a healthcare professional if you have any specific concerns or medical conditions.

Eye lubricants are generally safe for children to use. However, it is important to consult with a pediatrician or eye care professional before using any eye drops or lubricants on children, especially infants.

The duration of the effect can vary depending on the individual and the specific eye lubricant being used. Generally, the effects of eye lubricants last for a few hours, and they may need to be reapplied as needed.

Yes, eye lubricants can typically be used in conjunction with other eye medications. However, it is important to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional or pharmacist regarding the proper timing and administration of different eye medications.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.