Uses
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.
How to use Lacrisert Insert
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from 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, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 2 times daily.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication. Ask your doctor when you may replace your contact lenses.
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. Use the supplied applicator to place 1 insert into the eye.
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.
Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.
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 last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor 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 you have any serious side effects, including: eye redness/irritation that doesn't go away, eye pain, swelling in or around the eyes, vision changes.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away 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.
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 anything that needs clear vision until you can do it safely.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from heat. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
Lacrisert 5 mg eye inserts
Color: Shape: rodImprint:This medicine is a rod, translucent, insert
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.