Indications
Carboxymethylcellulose sodium eye drops and gels are used to relieve dry eyes and the burning, gritty, itchy or tired feeling that comes with them. Dry eyes can be caused by long screen use, air conditioning, wind, sun, dust, ageing, contact lens wear or some medicines. Doctors may also advise it after some eye operations.
How It Works
It is a lubricant, often called artificial tears. It forms a smooth, moist layer over the surface of the eye that stays longer than water, protecting the eye and easing dryness and irritation.
Dosage and Administration
- Eye drops: 1 to 2 drops in the affected eye or eyes as often as needed, usually 3 to 4 times a day or more often.
- Eye gel: often used at bedtime because it can blur vision for a short time.
- Single-dose vials: use once and throw away after use.
Wash your hands, tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid and put the drop in without touching the tip to the eye or anything else. Close the eye gently for a minute afterwards.
Interactions
No important interactions are known. If you use other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between different drops (about 15 minutes after a gel), and use the lubricant last.
Contraindications
Allergy to carboxymethylcellulose or any ingredient of the product, including preservatives.
Side Effects
Common: brief blurred vision after use, mild stinging, and sticky eyelids or crusting, especially with gels.
Stop using it and see a doctor urgently if you have eye pain, a change in vision, increasing redness or discharge, swelling of the eyelids or face, or if symptoms get worse or last more than 72 hours.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It works on the surface of the eye and is not absorbed into the body, so it is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, to keep it clean. Remove contact lenses before use unless the product says it is suitable for use with lenses. Wait until your vision is clear before driving. Do not use if the solution changes colour or becomes cloudy. Do not share eye drops. Red, painful eyes or eyes with discharge need a doctor’s check, as they may not be simple dry eye.
Overdose
Extra drops simply run out of the eye and are harmless. Swallowing a small amount is unlikely to cause harm.
Therapeutic Class
Ocular lubricant (artificial tears).
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle closed and throw it away after the time stated on the label once opened (usually 1 to 3 months).
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.