Drug
Diclofenac
Pronounced
"dye-KLO-fen-ack, off-THAL-mick"
Uses
This medication is used to treat swelling (inflammation) of the eye after cataract surgery. It is also used after another type of eye surgery (corneal refractive surgery) to temporarily relieve pain and sensitivity of the eye to light. Diclofenac belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for swelling from other eye conditions due to inflammation or injury.
How to Use This Medication
Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually 4 to 5 times a day. The dosage and duration of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine unless your doctor approves of it. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again.
To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.
Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place 1 drop into the pouch. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps if your dose is for more than 1 drop.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using the single dose units, discard the unit and any remaining solution after one use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (for example, other drops or ointments), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.
This medication is intended for short-term use only. Do not use this medication more often or for longer than prescribed because doing so may increase your risk of serious side effects.
Do not use this product if it becomes contaminated (for example, drops turn cloudy or a dark color). Use of contaminated eye medication can cause infection, serious damage to the eye, and loss of vision. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms last or if they get worse.