Voltaren Opht
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (dye-KLO-fen-ack, off-THAL-mick)
Voltaren Opht Uses
This medication is used to treat swelling (inflammation) and pain in the eye after certain types of eye surgery (cataract and corneal refractive surgery). Diclofenac belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by stopping the release and effects of certain natural substances (prostaglandins) that cause pain and inflammation.
How To Use Voltaren Opht
For cataract surgery, 1 drop is usually placed into the eye 4 times daily, starting 24 hours after surgery and continuing for 2 weeks after surgery, or as directed by your doctor.
For corneal refractive surgery, 1 or 2 drops are usually placed into the eye less than 1 hour before surgery. Less than 15 minutes after surgery, 1 or 2 drops are placed into the eye. This dose is repeated 4 times a day, up to 3 days after surgery or as directed by your doctor.
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.
This medication should not be used while wearing contact lenses. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.
If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place 1 drop into the pouch. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed or if your dose is for more than 1 drop.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed.
Do not apply this medication more often than prescribed or continue using it for longer than directed by your doctor. Prolonged use of diclofenac eye drops may increase the risk of very serious side effects of the eye.
