Generic
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Eye Prep
31 brands available in the market
At a glance
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Eye Prep is an ocular lubricant used to relieve irritation and discomfort due to dryness of the eye or exposure to wind or sun. It lubricates the surface of the eye similarly to natural tears.
Description
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium is an ocular lubricant that relieves dryness and irritation of the eye. It is a polymer in nature and is a clear, colorless aqueous solution. This medication lubricates the surface of the eye in the same way as natural tears.
It relieves dry eye symptoms in two ways: firstly by providing a lubricating and hydrating protective shield on the ocular surface, and then by working below the tear film to provide protection to the cornea.
It is effective in alleviating symptoms seen in moderate to severe dry eye syndromes (DES) and provides long-lasting protection against dryness and irritation. The pharmacological effect is not receptor-mediated but is due to its property as a viscosity enhancer, resulting in increased retention time of the eye drop.
Indications
- Dry eyes
- Irritation and discomfort due to exposure to wind or sun
Therapeutic class
Ophthalmic Lubricant
Pharmacological class
Artificial Tear / Ocular Lubricant
Pharmacology
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium is an ocular lubricant that provides a lubricating and hydrating protective shield on the ocular surface similar to natural tears and works below the tear film to protect the cornea. Its action is not receptor-mediated but is due to its viscosity-enhancing properties that increase the retention time of the eye drop.
Mechanism of action
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium forms a lubricating film on the ocular surface that mimics natural tears and protects the cornea.
Dosage
Adults: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily as needed.
Children (under 3 years): Do not use.
Elderly: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and other adult patients.
Note: Apply pressure on the inner corner of the eye for 2 minutes after instillation (to reduce systemic absorption).
Administration
1. Open the bottle by turning the cap.
2. Tilt your head back, pull the lower eyelid down, and place 1 drop into the eye.
3. Close your eye and press the inner corner of the eye with your finger for about 2 minutes.
4. Recap the bottle after each use.
Remove contact lenses before using. Allow at least 5 minutes between different eye medications (15 minutes for preservative-free liquigel). Use within 30 days of opening (60 days for preservative-free liquigel).
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
- Temporary blurred vision upon first use
- Minor burning/stinging/irritation (temporary)
- Eye irritation, pruritus, ocular discharge, visual disturbance (rare)
Precautions & warnings
- For external use only.
- Do not use if the solution changes color or becomes cloudy.
- Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface (to avoid contamination).
- Remove contact lenses before applying drops.
- Allow at least 5 minutes between different eye medications (15 minutes for preservative-free liquigel).
- Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy and lactation.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to any ingredient
Drug interactions
If several eye medications are used, allow at least 5 minutes between each application (15 minutes for preservative-free liquigel).
Food interactions
No food-related restrictions (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
Safe use during pregnancy has not been established; consult your doctor before use if pregnant.
Use in lactation
Safe use during lactation has not been established; consult your doctor before use if breastfeeding.
Pediatric use
Do not use in children under 3 years. Use in children 3 years and older under medical supervision.
Geriatric use
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and other adult patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions required for patients with liver or kidney impairment (minimal systemic absorption with topical application).
Overdose effects
Overuse may cause temporary blurred vision or irritation. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light. Use within 30 days of opening (60 days for preservative-free liquigel). Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium