Do you sometimes feel that your eyes are very dry, like a grain of sand stuck inside, and just itching? This discomfort is especially felt when you stare at the computer for a long time, or when you spend a lot of time in AC rooms? We call this condition 'Dry Eyes'. This condition is sometimes difficult to control with ordinary eye drops. In such cases, we are going to talk about a special medicine that your doctor prescribes.
What is Hydroxypropyl Cellulose?
Simply put, this is not your typical liquid eye drop. It comes in a clear, insert-like form, smaller than a grain of rice. A popular brand name for this is `(Lacrisert)`.
This works in a very strange way. After we put this little stick inside the lower eyelid, it starts to dissolve slowly. As it dissolves, the substance it releases thickens the tear film in our eyes, helping to keep them moist for a longer time without drying out. Think of it like a little sponge that slowly releases water. This medicine is usually recommended for people with fairly severe dry eyes.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
For your safety, it is extremely important to inform your doctor of the following information before you start using this medicine.
- Allergies: Be sure to tell us if you have an allergy to this medicine (Hydroxypropyl Cellulose) or any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or expecting a baby soon, say so.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child, you should also inform your doctor about this.
Hiding this information will only harm you. So, don't hide anything and talk openly with your doctor.
How exactly do you notice this?
Since this is not a regular eye drop, the method of use is a little different. So remember these steps carefully.
1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the medicine and after applying it to your eyes.
2. Preparation: Use the special applicator that comes with the medicine or your clean finger (only if instructed by your doctor).
3. Eyelid preparation: Gently pull down your lower eyelid, creating a small space (pocket) between your eye and eyelid.
4. Inserting the medicine: Slowly place the small medicine stick (insert) into the prepared space.
5. Close your eyelids: Then blink your eyes a few times. This will help the medicine go to the right place and stay there.
The most important thing is to use only the prescribed amount, exactly as your doctor tells you, at the right time. Do not stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice or use more than the prescribed amount. If you are giving this medicine to your child, be sure to consult a pediatrician.
What are the possible side effects of the medicine?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Nature of the side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | If you experience symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. |
| Eye pain | If you experience unbearable pain after applying eye drops. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome: | |
| Blurry vision | Vision may be temporarily blurred after the medication is administered. |
| Eye irritation or itching | Slight burning or itching of the eyes. |
| Sensitivity to light | Eyes turning blue even in normal light (squinting). |
Are there any interactions with other medications?
This medicine does not usually cause problems with other medications. However, if you are using any other type of eye drop, it is important to tell your doctor about it and ask for advice on the order and time interval between using the two.
A few other things to consider
- Blurred vision: Your vision may become slightly blurred when you use this medicine, especially at the beginning. Therefore, you should avoid doing activities that require a lot of attention, such as driving or operating machinery, until your eyes adjust to this medicine.
- Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor when and how you can put them back in.
- Sensitivity to light: If your eyes are sensitive to light, meaning they turn blue in the sun, wear a good pair of sunglasses.
- Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen despite using the medicine, tell your doctor immediately.
What if I forget to take the medicine and use too much?
If you forget...
If you forget to take your medicine on time, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
If you overdose...
If you 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.
How to store the medicine?
These things are important to maintain the quality of the medicine.
- Keep away from children: Keep this in a safe place out of the reach of small children .
- Temperature: Store below 30 degrees Celsius (30°C). Room temperature is usually sufficient.
- Expiration: Do not use any medication that has passed the expiration date stated on the medication package. Throw it away.
Take-Home Message
- Hydroxypropyl cellulose is not a regular eye drop, but a small, thick insert that is placed inside the lower eyelid.
- Before using the medication, be sure to tell your doctor about any allergies you have, whether you are pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
- As vision may be slightly blurred, avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until your eyes adjust to this medication.
- If you experience eye pain or severe allergic symptoms (such as facial swelling), seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else, even if your symptoms are the same.
- Always follow your doctor's instructions exactly. If you have any questions, ask them instead of guessing.
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