Lacrisert (Hydroxypropyl Cellulose)
Lacrisert (Hydroxypropyl Cellulose) Dosage and Side Effects
This medication is an insert that is placed in your eye to treat dry eyes. It is usually used when an artificial tears solution is not successful. This medication may also be used to treat certain other eye disorders (keratitis, decreased corneal sensitivity). It works by keeping the eye moist, helping to protect the eye from injury and infection and to decrease symptoms of dry eyes such as burning, itching, and feeling as if something is in the eye.
Proper Use of this medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Learn all preparation and usage instructions. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
To apply this medication, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the insert or let it touch any other surface besides the applicator.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication. Ask your doctor when you may replace your contact lenses.
Use the supplied applicator to place 1 insert into the eye, usually 1 to 2 times daily or as directed by your doctor.
Rinse the applicator with hot running water after use. Shake off any visible water droplets, and then replace the applicator in the storage container.
Avoid rubbing your eyes when using this medication. If the insert comes out, you may replace it with another one.
Your doctor may direct you to also use an artificial tears solution or saline drops with this medication. Use those medications exactly as prescribed.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
It may take several weeks to see the full benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Eye discomfort/irritation/redness, tearing, eye sensitivity to light, sticky eyelashes, or temporary blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Remove the insert and tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: eye pain, persistent eye redness/irritation, swelling in or around the eyes, vision changes.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Warnings and Precautions
Before using hydroxypropyl cellulose, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye surgery/injury/infection/disease.
After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions with this medication
Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other eye medications.
This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
Other related products
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
