Why is this medication prescribed?

Diclofenac, the active ingredient in Voltaren, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It is often prescribed in various forms, such as oral tablets or topical gels, for conditions like arthritis, pain, and inflammation.

If your healthcare provider has prescribed Voltaren Eye Drops for you, it’s essential to follow their instructions carefully. Typically, eye drops are used for conditions affecting the eyes, such as inflammation or pain.

How should this medicine be used?

To use Voltaren Eye Drops (containing diclofenac), it’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. The following is a general guide on how to use eye drops, but remember to follow the guidance of your healthcare professional:

• Wash Your Hands: Start by washing your hands thoroughly to ensure they are clean before touching your eyes or the eye drop bottle.
• Tilt Your Head Back or Lie Down: Tilt your head back slightly, or lie down, whichever is more comfortable for you. This position helps create a pocket for the eye drops.
• Pull Down Your Lower Eyelid: Use one hand to gently pull down your lower eyelid, creating a small pocket between your eyelid and eyeball.
• Hold the Eye Drop Bottle: Hold the eye drop bottle with your other hand. Make sure the tip of the bottle does not touch any surface to prevent contamination.
• Administer the Drops: While looking up, squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid. Be careful not to let the dropper touch your eye or eyelashes.
• Close Your Eyes: Close your eyes gently after applying the drops. This helps distribute the medication evenly across the surface of the eye.
• Apply Gentle Pressure: Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of your eye with your finger. This prevents the medication from draining into your tear duct and being absorbed systemically.
• Avoid Blinking Excessively: Try not to blink excessively immediately after applying the eye drops to prevent the medication from being blinked out of your eye.

If you are using more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5-10 minutes between administering different medications to allow each one to be absorbed properly.

Always use the prescribed dosage and follow the recommended schedule provided by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about using Voltaren Eye Drops, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional for clarification. If you experience any unexpected side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

Potential other uses for Voltaren Eye Drops may include:

• Postoperative Care: Voltaren Eye Drops might be prescribed after certain eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery, to reduce inflammation and discomfort during the healing process.
• Ocular Inflammation: In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe Voltaren Eye Drops for other forms of ocular inflammation.
• Pain Relief: The analgesic properties of diclofenac may be beneficial in managing eye pain associated with certain conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when using Voltaren Eye Drops may include:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to diclofenac or any other NSAIDs. If you have a history of allergic reactions, your doctor may need to consider alternative treatments.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They will weigh the potential risks and benefits before prescribing Voltaren Eye Drops.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any herbal supplements you are taking. Certain medications may interact with Voltaren Eye Drops.
• Eye Conditions: If you have pre-existing eye conditions, such as dry eye or glaucoma, let your healthcare provider know. They will consider these factors when prescribing eye medications.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, you may be advised to remove them before applying Voltaren Eye Drops. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on using eye drops while wearing contact lenses.

Always follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare professional. If you experience any unexpected side effects or have concerns about the medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly. This information is general, and specific recommendations may vary based on individual health conditions and medical history.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There were no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Voltaren Eye Drops. However, it’s always a good practice to follow a well-balanced and healthy diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a dose of Voltaren Eye Drops, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

The use of Voltaren Eye Drops (containing diclofenac) may be associated with certain side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may tolerate the medication well. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly. Common side effects of Voltaren Eye Drops may include:

• Eye Irritation: Mild irritation, burning, or stinging sensation in the eyes is a common side effect.
• Blurred Vision: Some individuals may experience temporary blurred vision after using the eye drops.
• Increased Sensitivity to Light: Photophobia, or increased sensitivity to light, may occur.
• Redness: Temporary redness of the eyes may occur.
• Tearing: Excessive tearing or watery eyes may be observed.
• Dry Eye: In some cases, dryness of the eyes may occur.

These side effects are often mild and transient, resolving on their own as your eyes adjust to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to notify your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, individuals may experience more serious side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Eye Pain: Intense or persistent eye pain should be addressed promptly.
• Changes in Vision: If you notice significant changes in your vision, contact your healthcare provider.
• Swelling or Inflammation: Severe swelling or inflammation of the eyes may occur in rare cases.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to diclofenac are possible. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Voltaren Eye Drops and report any unexpected or concerning side effects. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing eye conditions or allergies to ensure the appropriate management of your eye health.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here are important considerations regarding the storage and disposal information about Voltaren Eye Drops:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Voltaren Eye Drops at room temperature, away from excessive heat.
• Protect from Light: Keep the eye drop container away from direct light.
• Tightly Close Container: Ensure that the container is tightly closed when not in use.
• Out of Reach of Children: Store medications out of reach of children and pets.

Always follow specific storage instructions provided on the medication packaging or by your healthcare provider.

Disposal:

• Check Expiry Date: Do not use Voltaren Eye Drops beyond the expiration date.
• Dispose of Unused Medication: If your healthcare provider stops your treatment or you have unused medication, follow proper disposal guidelines. Consult your pharmacist or local authorities for guidance on how to dispose of medications safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after using Voltaren Eye Drops, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Severe eye pain
• Vision changes
• Swelling or redness of the eyes

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Keep your healthcare provider informed about any other medications or supplements you are taking, as well as any changes in your health.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands, to prevent contamination.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding the use of Voltaren Eye Drops with lenses.
• Inform About Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to medications, especially NSAIDs like diclofenac.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider to assess the risks and benefits of using Voltaren Eye Drops.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe and effective use of Voltaren Eye Drops. If you have specific questions or concerns, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice based on your individual health situation.