Do not wear soft contact lenses while using these eye drops.
About acetylcysteine eye drops
Type of medicine
Eye lubricant
Used for
For relief from dry eye syndromes (due to poor tear secretion or abnormal mucus production)
Also called
Ilube
Available as
Eye drops
Acetylcysteine eye drops works by breaking down any thick, sticky mucus on the surface of the eye.
Before using acetylcysteine eye drops
Before using acetylcysteine eye drops make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you are allergic to hypromellose.
How to use acetylcysteine eye drops
Wash your hands well before use.
Remove the cap of the container.
Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket.
Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, but try not to touch the eye.
Apply enough pressure to the container to release one drop.
Close the eye and keep it closed for a minute or two. If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop.
Repeat in the other eye if you have been told to use the drops in both eyes.
Wash your hands.
Apply the drops as often as needed, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Getting the most from your treatment
Do not wear soft contact lenses while using these eye drops.
Can acetylcysteine eye drops cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine
What can I do if I experience this
Eye irritation or reddening
If this persists speak to your doctor.
How to store acetylcysteine eye drops
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
References
British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.
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