Indications
Eye irrigating solution is a sterile, balanced salt solution used to rinse the eye. It is used to wash out dust, grit, chemicals, pollen or other irritants, to soothe tired, dry or irritated eyes, to clean the eye before or after eye examinations, and during some eye procedures performed by eye care professionals.
How It Works
The solution has a salt balance and acidity similar to natural tears, so it does not sting much. It works mechanically: the flow of liquid flushes away foreign material and dilutes irritating substances, and it moistens the surface of the eye. It contains no antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medicine.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label. Wash your hands, tilt the head back or to the side, hold the eyelids open and let the solution flow gently over the eye, from the inner corner outwards, as often as needed. For a chemical splash, rinse with plenty of solution (or clean water) for at least 15 minutes and seek medical help at once. Do not let the tip of the bottle touch the eye. Not for injection and not to be swallowed.
Interactions
No interactions are expected. If you also use eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes after rinsing before putting in the drops, so they are not washed away.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any ingredient of the solution
- Do not use for deep or penetrating eye injuries; seek medical help instead
Side Effects
It is generally very well tolerated. Brief stinging, blurred vision or a feeling of fullness in the eye may occur right after use. Allergic reactions are rare.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe eye pain, loss of vision, a chemical injury, an object stuck in the eye, or if redness and pain get worse after rinsing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it acts only on the surface of the eye and contains no active drug.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not use if the seal is broken or the solution is cloudy or discoloured. Remove contact lenses before rinsing unless told otherwise. If irritation lasts more than 72 hours, or vision changes, see a doctor. Single-use containers should be thrown away after one use; multi-use bottles should be discarded as stated on the label after opening.
Overdose
Using more than directed is not harmful. If swallowed in small amounts, no treatment is needed.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic irrigating solution (sterile balanced salt solution).
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light, do not freeze, and keep out of the reach of children. Discard after opening as directed on the label.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.