WHAT ARE THE INDICATIONS?

OCUFEN is an ophthalmic solution (eye drops) which is used for dilatation of pupil of eyes during eye surgery. It helps the doctor to examine the eye and in the removal of cataract. It can also be used after eye surgery for relieving redness, swelling and pain.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

OCUFEN inhibits the enzymes cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX 1 and 2). These enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of chemicals called prostaglandins which are responsible for the pain, swelling, fever and redness.

WHAT IS THE DOSAGE?

Total four drops of OCUFEN ophthalmic solution should be administered before surgery. One drop should be instilled at an interval of 1/2 hour. Instillation should be started 2 hours before surgery.

HOW TO USE?

 Before using OCUFEN eye drops, wash your hands and lie down with your head on a support. With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye. Instill the medicine into the eye and close your eyes gently. Do not blink. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean tissue, preventing your eye from touch. Wash your hands after instillation of OCUFEN.

It should be instilled in eye preventing it from touching the eye or surrounding tissues. Tip of the bottle should not be touched otherwise it can lead to contamination of the solution. If you have undergone surgery of both eyes, you should have to use different bottle for different eye to prevent cross contamination.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

Upon instillation slight burning and stinging can occur for 1 to 2 minutes. This is common and does not need any medical attention. But in case you face any of the following side effects then consult your doctor immediately:

• Redness and irritation of eyes
• Bleeding of eyes
• Difficulty in vision
• Increase in light sensitivity of eyes
• Severe stinging and burning of eyes
• Allergic reaction which includes redness, swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat; difficulty in breathing.

WHAT ARE THE DRUG INTERACTIONS?

Ask your doctor if you are using any other drug or herbal medicine because it can react with OCUFEN and worsen your condition or can decrease the effectiveness of the drug. So, your doctor should be informed about your other treatments or drugs prior to starting the therapy with OCUFEN. The following drugs show interaction with OCUFEN:

• corticosteroids like prednisone
• anti-platelet drugs like clopidogrel, warfarin: these drugs enhance bleeding when combined with OCUFEN.
• Pain relievers/fever reducers (aspirin, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen): These drugs belong to the class of OCUFEN and can increase the side effects if taken together.
• Acetylcholine and carbachol become ineffective when used with OCUFEN ophthalmic solution.

WHAT ARE THE CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS?

• Do not increase the dose without doctor’s consultation.
• Should be used only when prescribed. Do not use it for other eye problems for which it is not prescribed
• If you have any other eye problems like cornea problems, dry eye, past eye surgeries tell your doctor and avoid its use.
• If you have diabetes and/or rheumatoid arthritis tell your doctor before using it.
• After instillation it can cause blurring of vision for some time Do not drive or operate heavy machinery immediately after instilling OCUFEN
• If you are using any corticosteroid eye drops tell your doctor.
• In case of any allergic reaction like redness, swelling of face, lips and throat seeks medical help.
• Should be avoided during first and third trimester of pregnancy because it can harm the unborn at that time the most.
•  During breast feeding, consult your doctor for the use of OCUFEN.
• It should be used carefully in patients with heart disease.
• Should be used carefully in children and old people due to safety reasons
• Tip of the bottle should not be touched
• Do not use same bottle for both the eyes in case of surgery of both eyes.
• If you use contact lenses, remove them before instilling OCUFEN
• After using it tightly close the lid.
• Do not use same bottle for two persons.

WHAT ARE THE STORAGE CONDITIONS?

Should be stored at 15°-25°C (59°-77°F) in a dry place away from the reach of children. Use only if prescribed by doctor.