To relieve dryness and irritation caused by a reduced flow of tears
Also called
Celluvisc®
Optive®
Available as
Eye drops and single-dose unit eye drops
Carmellose sodium eye drops work by lubricating the surface of eyes that are too dry
Before using carmellose sodium eye drops
Before using carmellose sodium eye drops make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
How to use carmellose sodium 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 to two drops.
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.
If you are using the single-dose eye drops, then discard the container straight away after use.
Wash your hands.
Apply the drops as often as needed, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. For very dry eyes, the drops may need to be applied every hour.
Getting the most from your treatment
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
If you also have to use any other eye drops or ointments, leave about five minutes between using each one and at least fifteen minutes before applying carmellose sodium.
Carmellose sodium should always be the last eye preparation used.
If you wear contact lenses, they should be removed before each time you use the eye drops and not put back in until at least fifteen minutes afterwards.
When first put in, these eye drops may cause blurred vision. Make sure you can see clearly before you drive, use machinery or do other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not able to see properly.
Can carmellose sodium 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:
Common side-effects
What can I do if I experience this
A mild stinging sensation in the eyes
This should soon disappear as your eyes adjust to the new drops
Blurring of vision
This usually disappears within 15 minutes of applying the eye drops. Do not drive or use machinery unless your vision is clear
If any of these effects continue or become severe or if you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to these eye drops, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
How to store carmellose sodium eye drops
Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Discard each single dose container straight away after use.
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 using. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to use with your other medicines.
Before using this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking or using any medicine.
Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has used too much or swallowed any 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 using.
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.
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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