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Povidone

  • If you have other eye drops to use, instil those into the eyes first and leave a gap of at least 5 minutes before using povidone eye drops
  • Throw the container away immediately after use even if it is not empty
  • If your vision is blurred, do not drive a car or operate machinery

About povidone

Type of medicine Lubricant
Used for Treatment of dry eyes
Also called Oculotect
Available as Eye drops

Povidone works by lubricating and moistening the surface of the eyeball in the same way as natural tears.

Before using povidone

Before using povidone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

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

How to use povidone

  • Instil one drop four times a day.
  • If you have other eye drops to use, instil those into the eyes first and leave a gap of at least 5 minutes before using povidone eye drops.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • The contents of a single-dose container are enough to allow one drop into both the left and the right eye.
  • Throw the container away immediately after use even if it is not empty.
  • If your vision is blurred, do not drive a car or operate machinery.

Can povidone 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
Mild burning or sticky sensation This should only be temporary, and should pass as your eyes get used to the drops
Irritation If this is troublesome, speak to your doctor

How to store povidone

  • 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.
© EMIS 2007 DocID:
1472		 DocRef:
dils3769		 Last Updated:
5 Jan 2007		 Date of Next Review:
4 Jan 2009		 Version:
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PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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