Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Your eye doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to. This medicine is not for long-term use.

Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

To use the eye drops:

  • The bottle is only partially full to provide proper drop control.
  • First, wash your hands. Then tilt the head back and pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close the eyes. Do not blink. Keep the eyes closed for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed.
  • If you think you did not get the drop of medicine into your eye properly, use another drop.
  • Immediately after using the eye drops, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.
  • To keep the medicine as germ-free as possible, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface (including the eye). Also, keep the container tightly closed. Serious damage to the eye and possible loss of vision may result from using contaminated eye drops.

To use the eye ointment:

  • Hold the tip of the tube close to your eye with the other hand.
  • Avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or finger.
  • Squeeze a small amount (1/4 inch) of ointment into the pocket between your lower lid and eyeball. Close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Wipe the tip with a clean tissue and close the tube tightly. Keep the tube tightly closed when you are not using it.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For swelling of the cornea:
    • For ophthalmic dosage form (eye drops):
      • Adults—Use 1 or 2 drops every 3 or 4 hours, or as directed by your doctor.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For ophthalmic dosage form (eye ointment):
      • Adults—Apply small amount (1/4 inch) to the inside of the eyelids every 3 or 4 hours, or as directed by your doctor.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024

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