Do you sometimes feel that your eyes are very dry, rough, and itchy, like sand? Dry eyes are a problem for many people, whether it is due to staring at the computer for a long time, staying in air-conditioned rooms for a long time, or due to other medical reasons. So, a special medicine that doctors recommend for this is called hydroxypropyl cellulose. Let's take a look at this medicine, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
Hydroxypropyl Cellulose is a medication that is used to treat dry eyes. It works by keeping the eye moist and providing comfort. You may have seen it under the brand name Lacrisert. It doesn't come as an eye drop, but as an insert that you put under your eye.
This medication may sometimes be prescribed by your doctor for other reasons, so if you have any questions, it's best to talk to your doctor about it.
Things to tell your doctor before using the medicine
Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will ask you a few questions. Be sure to mention these things at that time.
- Tell us if you have an allergic reaction to hydroxypropyl cellulose or if you have allergies to other medicines, foods, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, tell us.
- Be sure to inform us if you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, it will be easier for your doctor to decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
How exactly do you use this?
It is very important to know exactly how to use this medicine.
1. Wash your hands: Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after using the medicine.
2. Follow the instructions: Read the instructions given to you by your doctor or the instructions on the medicine package carefully and follow them exactly. If you are not sure about the exact method of use, ask your doctor again.
3. For eye use only: This is an eye medicine only . Do not take it orally or use it in any other way for any reason.
4. On time: Take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor, at the prescribed intervals. Do not take more or less than the recommended amount.
5. Don't stop: Don't stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.
If you give it to small children...
It is very important to consult a pediatrician before using this medicine on your young child. Children may require special care when using it.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If you suddenly think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
The most important thing is that this medicine is for you only. Never give it to a friend or family member. Even if they have the same problem, it is not a good idea to give it to them without first consulting a doctor.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
Never take the medicine at the same time to make up for the missed dose and the next dose. Doing so may cause side effects .
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
When using this medicine, you need to be a little careful about your eyes as well as your daily activities .
| Point to note | Description |
|---|---|
| Change in symptoms | If your dry eyes don't improve, or if they seem to be getting worse, tell your doctor right away. |
| Vision changes | This medicine may sometimes cause blurred vision, especially at night. If you notice any changes in your vision, tell your doctor. |
| Driving and operating machinery | Because vision may be blurred, do not do anything that requires clear vision, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know exactly how this medicine affects you. |
| Contact Lenses | If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor when you can wear them again while using this medication. |
| Sensitivity to light | Some people may experience sensitivity to light due to this medication. If your eyes feel blue when exposed to sunlight, wearing sunglasses may help. |
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone gets them.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. |
| Eye pain | Severe eye pain after using the medicine. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Blurred vision | Feeling like things are not seeing clearly. |
| Eye discomfort | Discomfort, such as slight itching or burning in the eye. |
| Sensitivity to light | Eyes appear blue even in normal light. |
This list may not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Where should I keep this medicine?
- Keep it out of the reach of small children. This is very important.
- Store at room temperature, below 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Do not keep expired medications. Dispose of them safely.
If you have any further questions about this medication, never rely solely on information found on the internet. It's best to ask your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Hydroxypropyl cellulose is a medication used to treat dry eyes.
- Before using this, tell your doctor about any allergies you have and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Use caution when driving and performing hazardous tasks, as vision may be blurred while using the medication.
- If you experience severe eye pain, swelling, or allergic symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- Do not stop taking the medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
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