Altachlore (for the eyes) is used to reduce swelling of the cornea (the front surface of your eye) caused by surgery, infection, trauma, or other eye conditions.

Sodium chloride, hypertonic, ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the ointment: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze a ribbon of ointment from the tube into this pocket. Blink your eye gently and then keep it closed for 1 or 2 minutes. Wipe excess ointment from your eyelashes using a clean tissue.

To apply the eye drops: Remove contact lenses before using. 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 ointment tube or eye dropper, and do not place the tip directly on your eye. A contaminated tip can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 72 hours.

Do not use the ointment if it has particles in it. Do not use the eye drops if the liquid looks cloudy. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep the tube or bottle tightly closed when not in use. Store eye drops in an upright position.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have medical conditions or allergies.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

An overdose of Altachlore is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

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

Altachlore may cause serious side effects. Stop using Altachlore and call your doctor at once if you have:

• eye pain;

• severe or ongoing eye redness or irritation;

• vision changes; or

• worsening of your eye condition.

Common side effects of Altachlore may include:

• mild burning or irritation in your eyes.

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