Products
In many countries, few eye ointments are currently on the market because eye drops are more commonly used. Some eye drops are available without prescription, while others are available only with a doctor’s prescription.
Structure and properties
Eye ointments are semisolid and sterile preparations for application to the eye, intended for use on the conjunctiva, cornea, or eyelids. They contain one or more active ingredients, which are homogeneously distributed in the base. For example, lanolin, kerosene and petrolatum are used as bases. Eye ointments may contain preservatives and stabilizers. Some are unpreserved.
Effects
Eye ointments have caring and moisturizing properties and, depending on the active ingredient, defined pharmacologic (e.g., antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory) properties. Unlike eye drops, they contain lipids and linger longer on the eye.
Indications for use
Indications for use include, for example, bacterial or viral infections of the eye, dry eyes, eye irritation, injuries, and inflammatory diseases.
Dosage
According to the professional information leaflet. Eye ointments are applied to the eye or eyes one or more times daily.
- Wash hands well with soap.
- Gently pull down the lower eyelid with the index finger to create a space between the eyelid and the eye.
- Tilt the head back slightly and look up.
- The tip of the tube should not come into contact with the eye or eyelid.
- Give the prescribed length of fine ointment strand by gently pressing the tube into the opening. Start at the corner of the eye (nose) and continue outward.
- Release the eyelid, close the eye and move under the eyelid to spread the medicine on the eye.
- Close the tube again.
- After application, it is necessary to refrain from driving vehicles and operating machinery until normal visual acuity is restored. Eye ointments are therefore often administered at night.
Eye ointments are usually durable for one month after opening, rarely shorter or longer. Some are also applied to the eyelid margin or eyelid.
Active ingredients
Active ingredients found in eye ointments include, for example:
- Aciclovir
- Bibrocathol
- Ciprofloxacin
- Dexamethasone
- Dexpanthenol
- Euphrasia
- Hydrocortisone
- Neomycin
- Ofloxacin
- Prednisone
- Tobramycin
- Vitamin A (retinol)
These are antiseptics, antibiotics, antiviralia, phytopharmaceuticals, vitamins and glucocorticoids.
Contraindications
Contraindications include:
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Other ophthalmic agents should not be administered at the same time, but should be spaced at least 5 to 15 minutes apart. Use the eye drops first and the eye ointment last. Contact lenses should not be worn during treatment.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include transient visual disturbances (blurred vision) and local reactions to the eye, such as burning, stinging, and pain. Topically applied drugs may also be absorbed into the circulation. The active ingredients and excipients can trigger allergic reactions. As long as visual disturbances persist, driving should be avoided and machinery should not be operated.
