DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Artificial Tears eye ointment

July 17, 2018

Artificial Tears eye ointment

What is this medicine?

ARTIFICIAL TEARS (ahr tuh FISH uhl teerz) soothes irritation and discomfort caused by dry eyes.

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 label. Wash hands before and after use. Pull down the lower lid of the affected eye and apply a small amount of ointment, roughly one fourth inch, to the inside of the eyelid. Close the eye gently for a few moments to allow contact with the eye. Wipe away any residue with a clean tissue. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be used in children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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

  • change in vision

  • eye irritation or redness that gets worse or lasts more than 72 hours

  • eye pain

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

  • temporary stinging or blurred vision when applying the eye drops

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. If you are also using eye drops of any type, use the drops roughly 10 minutes before application of the eye ointment so that the eye ointment does not interfere with the action of the drops.

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 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Once the product is opened, most experts recommend discarding the product after 30 days.

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

  • change in vision

  • eye infection or trauma

  • wear contact lenses

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to artificial tears, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

If you experience eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness or irritation of the eye, or if your eye condition gets worse or lasts longer than 72 hours, discontinue use and consult your health care professional.

To avoid contamination of this product, do not touch the tip of the container to any surface. Do not share this medicine with others. If the product changes color do not use.

If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before putting the ointment in your eyes. Wait at least 15 minutes after putting the ointment in your eyes before putting your contact lenses back in.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018