Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Dosage Forms Available

• Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose is available for use via the ophthalmic route in the form of eye drops and topically as an ointment.

• It is also available for topical use in creams and lotions.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for use by adults and children. Specific age restrictions may depend on the formulation and concentration of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose used in the product.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose or other cellulose derivatives.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with other eye medications (such as antihistamine eye drops including ketotifen and olopatadine), and oral medications that alter tear production (such as anticholinergics like atropine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, especially in eye drop form, is generally not harmful. In case you happen to put a few extra drops of this medicine in your eye, do not panic. Rinse your eyes with clean water at room temperature. If any symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor.

• Overdose of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose in topical form is unlikely as it is intended for external use only. Using the prescribed dosage is recommended to avoid any side effects.

• If a dose is missed, apply the medicine when you remember but skip it if it is almost time for your next scheduled application. Do not double the amount to be applied.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• If eye irritation occurs due to eye drops, blinking several times can help spread the eye drop evenly across the eye surface.

• For topical forms, if irritation occurs, reducing the frequency of application may help alleviate discomfort.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• The ophthalmic form of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision is clear.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is advisable to consult a doctor before using Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The safety profile has not been fully established under these conditions.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with severe allergic conditions should exercise caution when using products containing Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose due to potential hypersensitivity reactions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• For individuals using Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose for dry eyes, increasing hydration by drinking plenty of water can be beneficial.

• Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, found in fish like salmon and nuts like walnuts, can help improve overall eye health.

• For skin conditions managed by topical forms of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, maintaining a clean and moisturised skin regimen can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.