Diclofenac eye solution

What is this medicine?

DICLOFENAC (dye KLOE fen ak) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The eye drops are used in the eye to treat swelling after eye surgery. They also help treat pain and sensitivity to light after the surgery.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

If you have soft contact lenses, you should not wear them while you are using this medicine.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• bleeding in the white part of your eye

• flu like symptoms or eye infection

• sores in the eye or eye irritation that gets worse

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• blurred vision

• burning or stinging after instilling the drops

• tearing

What may interact with this medicine?

• agents that may increase bleeding time such as warfarin or other blood thinners

• corticosteroid eye drops or ointments such as dexamethasone

Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused eye solution after one month.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding problems

• diabetes

• dry eye syndrome, other eye problems, or recent eye surgery

• rheumatoid arthritis

• wear soft contact lenses

• an unusual or allergic reaction to diclofenac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your eye symptoms do not get better within 2 to 3 days. Do not use for longer than directed by your doctor or health care professional.

You may have to wear a special bandage for up to 3 days after your surgery.

Wear sunglasses if your eyes are more sensitive to light.