How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient diclofenac sodium, which is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This group of medicines is used to relieve inflammation and pain. Diclofenac works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase. Cyclo-oxygenase is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, some of which are known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced in response to injury or certain diseases and would otherwise go on to cause pain, swelling and inflammation. Diclofenac is therefore used to relieve pain and inflammation. All the medicines in this group (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation caused by the body's own immune system, and are effective pain killers. Diclofenac eye drops are used to relieve pain and swelling of the eye that may follow various types of eye surgery or eye injury. They are also used to reduce the symptoms of conjunctivitis caused by seasonal allergies, eg hayfever due to pollen allergy. In addition, diclofenac drops can be used prior to cataract surgery to prevent the pupil constricting during the surgery, though it is not fully understood how diclofenac works in this case.

What is it used for?

Inflammation and discomfort of the eye following eye surgery or injury

Preventing constriction of the pupil prior to cataract surgery

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis

Warning!

This medicine may cause your vision to blur temporarily after you have applied it into your eye. Do not drive or operate machinery until this has worn off.

If you are using more than one type of eye drop you should administer them at least five minutes apart, to prevent the second drop washing away the first. Use eye gels or ointments last.

Each dosage unit is for single use only and should be discarded immediately after use. Do not save the unused contents, as they do not contain a preservative and so will not keep.

Use with caution in

Blood clotting disorders

Eye infections

Not to be used in

People in whom aspirin or other medicines in this class (NSAIDs), cause attacks of asthma, itchy rash (urticaria) or nasal inflammation (rhinitis)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not established. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless considered essential by your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Burning sensation in the eye

Increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

Inflammation of small areas on the surface of the eye (keratitis punctata)

Disruption of the clear front covering of the pupil (corneal epithelial discontinuity)

Blurred vision after application

Hypersensitivity reactions with itching or reddening of the eye

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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