Carboxymethyl Cellulose Eye Drops

Carboxymethyl Cellulose Eye Drops 1% falls in the class of ophthalmic preparations primarily used for dry eyes. Dry eye(s) is a condition where the eye fails to produce sufficient tears to coat it, thus exposing the cornea and conjunctiva, which are the outer coverings of the eye, to evaporation and subsequent damage.

Carboxymethyl Cellulose is an artificial tear used to lubricate the eye. It resembles natural tears. The substance functions similarly to tear drops by facilitating proper lubrication of the eyes. This is bound to offer some relief from irritation and burning from the dryness of the eye due to the formation of further irritation.

Medical Benefits:-

Carboxymethylcellulose is an artificial tear simply known as an eye lubricant. It is similar to natural tears and serves to temporarily alleviate burning and discomfort with the relief that is realized from the proper lubrication of the eyes and providing protection from further irritation.

How Does Carboxymethyl Cellulose Eye Drops Work?

Sodium Carboxymethyl cellulose has viscoelasticity with retentive properties. It enhances the stability of the precorneal tear film, hence protecting the eye surface against environmental aggressions. It ensures the eyes remain moist and lubricated. If there is poor production of tears in the eyes, it keeps the eyes wet. It gives palliative relief from the symptoms of dry eyes by ensuring comfort, as it can be sore, irritating, or gritty at times. Sodium Carboxymethyl cellulose Eye Drops are preservative-free and can be used by people who wear rigid or gas-permeable contact lenses or who are sensitive to preservatives.

Side Effects:-

• Irritation in eye
• Continued eye redness
• Pain in eye
• Blurred vision
• Redness of the eye

Precautions:-

• The prescribed treatment prescribed by your doctor is Carboxymethyl cellulose to treat dry eye disease.
• It stabilizes the natural tear film and hence maintains adequate lubrication so eyes don't become dry and irritated.
• Use may be long-term, Apply pressure in the conjunctival angle, adjacent to the nasal edge of the cornea, for approximately 1 minute following instillation.
• Wait for about 5-10 minutes to administer the following eye medication in the same eye so that the drug does not get diluted.
• The burning sensation may be felt for some 1-2 minutes. Report to your doctor if the burning sensation persists.
• Use within 4 weeks of opening the bottle.
• Your physician has suggested Carboxymethylcellulose to cure dry eye disease.
• It stabilizes the natural tear film and maintains necessary lubrication so your eyes do not get dry and irritated.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ):-

Q. What is Carboxymethylcellulose used for?

Carboxymethylcellulose is an artificial tear substitute. This medicine is used as a lubricant for dry eyes. It is also used for the temporary relief of burning, irritation, and/or discomfort due to dryness of the eyes. It is also used to lubricate and re-wet soft and rigid gas-permeable contact lenses. It is also used to cure dryness, irritation, and discomfort that may occur with lens wear.

Q. What are the side effects of Carboxymethylcellulose?

You may have visual disturbances and eye discharge while on this medication. Other side effects of this medication include redness of the eye, eye irritation, burning and discomfort, eyelid swelling, and itching of the eye. If you suffer from any of these side effects, so consult your physician.

Q. How should Carboxymethylcellulose be kept?

Keep away from children. Keep at or below 25°C. Avoid touching the container tip to any surface or your eye(s). Replace the cap after every use. Do not use your eye drops after the expiration date or if it has been opened for more than 30 days.