Aciclovir eye ointment

About aciclovir eye ointment

Aciclovir eye ointment works by interfering with the growth of certain viruses that affect the eye (particularly herpes simplex viruses)

Before using aciclovir eye ointment

Before using aciclovir eye ointment make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• 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 aciclovir eye ointment

Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.

If the eye(s) have an obvious discharge or 'crust' they may be bathed with boiled and cooled water before treating with aciclovir.

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the eye, trying not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release a thin line of ointment along the inside of the lower eye lid
6. Blink to spread the ointment around the inside of the eye
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use aciclovir in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with the fingers as you do so
9. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use aciclovir eye ointment exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• It should be applied five times a day.
• Do not wear soft contact lenses while you are being treated with aciclovir eye ointment.
• If you are using any other eye drops or eye ointments, leave at least five minutes between applying each preparation.
• Try not to miss doses. If you do miss a dose, then apply the missed dose as soon as possible.
• It is important to continue using aciclovir for 3 days after the eye has completely healed to ensure that all of the viruses have been killed.
• Do not use aciclovir eye ointment more often or for a longer period than your doctor had directed.
• If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
• Strict attention to hygiene and cleanliness is important to prevent the infection spreading.
• Be careful to use separate towels to other members of your household.
• If only the one eye is infected, care must be taken to avoid spreading the infection from one eye to the other.
• Eye infections can cause the eyes to become more sensitive to sunlight. Wearing dark glasses may help prevent this.
• Aciclovir eye ointment is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Aciclovir eye ointment is for external use only. If you suspect someone has swallowed any aciclovir, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Where possible take the container with you, even if empty.

Can aciclovir eye ointment 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.

In addition, your eye may feel puffy and irritated as if there is something in it.

If the irritation is severe, your condition worsens, or if you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this preparation ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store aciclovir eye ointment

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Do not use this preparation more than four weeks after opening.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

Important information about all medicines