Sodium Chloride
What is SODIUM CHLORIDE?
(SODIUM CHLORIDE) This product is used to reduce swelling of the surface of the eye (cornea) in certain eye conditions. Decreasing swelling of the cornea may lessen eye discomfort or irritation caused by the swelling. This product works by drawing fluid out of the cornea to reduce swelling.
How should I use SODIUM CHLORIDE?
Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before replacing your contact lenses. 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 up, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place 1 drop into the pouch. Release the eyelid and gently close your eyes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes. 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 and for your other eye if so directed. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. Remove extra solution around the eye with a tissue, and wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before using the other medication. Use eye drops before ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery. This product is recommended for use under a doctor's direction. If your condition gets worse, if it lasts for more than 3 days, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take SODIUM CHLORIDE?
Before using sodium chloride eye solution, 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 product, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: other eye problems. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). This product is safe to use during pregnancy. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
What may interact with SODIUM CHLORIDE?
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.
What if I miss a dose of SODIUM CHLORIDE?
If you are using this product on a regular schedule and 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.
What side effects may I notice from receiving SODIUM CHLORIDE?
Eye discomfort, burning, redness, or temporary blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that 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. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: eye pain, 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.
Where should I keep SODIUM CHLORIDE?
Refer to storage information printed on the package. Do not freeze. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. 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.