Sodium Chloride ophthalmic ointment

What is this medicine?

SODIUM CHLORIDE (SOE dee um KLOOR ide) eye ointment is a medicine used in the eye to reduce swelling.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the 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 tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surfaces. Squeeze the end of the ointment tube to apply a small amount of ointment, roughly one fourth inch, to the inside of the eyelid. Close the eye gently to spread the ointment. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your doctor or healthcare professional even if your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advise of your doctor or healthcare professional.

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

• 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. Do not use any other eye products without talking to 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). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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

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

• change in vision

• eye infection or trauma

• wear contact lenses

• an unusual or allergic reaction to sodium chloride, 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. Do not use if the ointment is hard to squeeze.

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.