Generic name: nedocromil ophthalmic [ ne-dok-roe-mil-off-thal-mik ]
Drug class: Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants
Dosage form: ophthalmic solution (2%)
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Alocril
What is Nedocromil ophthalmic?
Nedocromil is an anti-allergic medicine that can reduces certain symptoms after you are exposed to an allergen.
Nedocromil ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat itching of the eyes caused by allergies.
Nedocromil ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
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.
How should I take Nedocromil ophthalmic
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not use this medicine while wearing contact lenses. Nedocromil ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using this medicine before putting in your contact lenses.
Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
To apply the eye drops:
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Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.
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Blink several times to make sure the solution spreads over your eye. Then close your eyes and wipe away any excess solution with a clean tissue.
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Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed. If you use more than one drop, wait about 5 minutes between drops.
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Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye 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 eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Use this medicine for the full length of time you are exposed to allergens, even if you have no symptoms.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis:
Instill 1 or 2 drops in each eye twice a day
Comments:
-This drug should be used at regular intervals.
-Treatment should be continued throughout the period of exposure (i.e., until pollen season is over or until exposure to offending allergen is terminated) even when symptoms are absent.
Use: For the treatment of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis
Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis:
3 years or older: Instill 1 or 2 drops in each eye twice a day
Comments:
-This drug should be used at regular intervals.
-Treatment should be continued throughout the period of exposure (i.e., until pollen season is over or until exposure to offending allergen is terminated) even when symptoms are absent.
Use: For the treatment of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis
Before Taking
You should not use nedocromil ophthalmic if you are allergic to nedocromil.
This medicine is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether nedocromil ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Nedocromil ophthalmic is not approved for use by anyone younger than 3 years old.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of nedocromil ophthalmic 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.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA's Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.
It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org
What should I avoid while using Nedocromil ophthalmic?
Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.
Nedocromil ophthalmic side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Nedocromil ophthalmic may cause serious side effects. Stop using nedocromil ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using nedocromil ophthalmic.
Common side effects of nedocromil ophthalmic may include:
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headache;
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runny or stuffy nose;
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eye redness;
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your eyes may be more sensitive to light;
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mild eye irritation after using the eye drops.
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.
See more: Nedocromil ophthalmic Side EffectsWhat other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.