Hypromellose ophthalmic

Hypromellose is sometimes called hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

Hypromellose ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used as an eye lubricant to treat dry, irritated eyes.

Hypromellose ophthalmic is also used during certain eye surgeries to help keep the shape of the eye and to protect the tissues of the eye from injury during the procedure.

Hypromellose ophthalmic is also used during certain eye examinations to protect the cornea (the protective front layer of your eye) and to help check if fluid is draining properly from the eye.

Hypromellose ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Do not use the medicine if it looks cloudy or has changed colors.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 72 hours, or if they get worse.

Store this medicine at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

When used during an eye exam or eye surgery, hypromellose ophthalmic is given by a healthcare professional in a clinic setting.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are using.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had glaucoma.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give hypromellose ophthalmic to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Hypromellose ophthalmic may lead to serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• redness, itching, or discomfort in your eyes;
• changes in your vision;
• swollen or droopy eyelids; or
• a lump or swelling in your eyelid.

Common side effects of hypromellose ophthalmic may include:

• dry eyes.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Eye Dryness/Redness:

Ophthalmic drops: 1 to 2 drops as needed. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ophthalmic 2% intraocular solution is for use as an ophthalmic surgical aid in anterior segment surgery.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Eye Dryness/Redness:

Ophthalmic drops:>= 6 years: 1 to 2 drops as needed.The ophthalmic 2% intraocular solution is for use as an ophthalmic surgical aid in anterior segment surgery.

Since hypromellose ophthalmic is used as needed, you might not have a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in hypromellose ophthalmic could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. However, many drugs can interact with each other. Inform all your healthcare providers about all medicines you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.