which means "for eye use only. " �
Make sure you have the right dose. Check the amount of drug against what the doctor ordered.Never use anyone elses eye drugs, even if it is the same drug.Know if you are supposed to give the eye ointment in one eye or both.Check the expiration date. Do not use it if it is expired.Store your eye ointment away from the sunlight.Wash your hands with warm, soapy water and dry them thoroughly before touching your eye.If you wear contact lenses, take them out before using eye ointment.
What happens during the procedure?
- Uncap the eye ointment tube and lay the cap on its side on a clean surface.
- Tilt your head back. Use one finger to gently pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Point the finger away from the eye to avoid scratching the cornea.
- With the other hand, squeeze a small ribbon of ointment into the pouch. Do not touch the tip of the tube to your eye or anything else.
- Gently blink your eye and then close it. This helps the ointment to stay in your eye.
- After 1 to 2 minutes, open your eye.
- Some people squint and struggle to put eye ointment in their eyes in. Try closing your eyes. Ask someone to help you by gently pulling the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Then they can put a small ribbon of ointment into the pouch. Finish by blinking a few times and holding your eyes closed for 1 to 2 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- Remove extra ointment around your eye with a clean tissue. Take care not to touch your eye.
- Wash your hands to remove any eye ointment that may be on them.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. � �
What problems could happen?
- Mild itching
- Burning
- Stinging
- Blurred vision
- Eye infection
When do I need to call the doctor?
- You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
- If you have blurred vision for more than a few minutes after using your eye ointment
Helpful tips
- If you are using more than 1 kind of eye ointment, wait at least 5 minutes before using the other one.
- If you are also using eye drops, use them first. Wait at least 5 minutes before using the eye ointment.
Where can I learn more?
American Society or Health-System Pharmacists � �
http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseEyeOintmentsandGelsProperly.aspx � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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