Why is this medication prescribed
Alocril (Nedocromil ophthalmic) is prescribed primarily to treat allergic conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the eye due to allergies. It helps to reduce symptoms like itching, redness, and watering of the eyes.
How should this medicine be used?
To use Alocril (Generic Nedocromil Ophthalmic) properly, follow these steps:
- Wash Your Hands: Clean your hands thoroughly before applying the eye drops.
- Prepare the Medication: Shake the bottle gently if instructed by the manufacturer or your pharmacist.
- Apply the Drops:
- Tilt your head back slightly.
- Use your index finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Hold the dropper above the eye, making sure it doesn’t touch your eye or eyelashes.
- Squeeze the bottle gently to release one drop into the pocket created by your lower eyelid.
- Close Your Eyes: Close your eye gently and press your finger against the inner corner of your eye (near the nose) for about one minute. This helps to prevent the medication from draining away.
- Repeat if Necessary: If you need to apply drops to both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
- Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including your eye or hands, to avoid contamination.
- Replace Cap: After use, replace the cap on the bottle immediately to keep the drops sterile.
- Storage: Store the medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not freeze it.
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dosage and frequency. If you experience any discomfort or side effects, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Other uses for this medicine
Other Uses for Alocril (Nedocromil Ophthalmic):
- Other Allergic Conditions: While primarily used for allergic conjunctivitis, Nedocromil may also be used for other allergic eye conditions as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Seasonal Allergies: It may be effective for managing eye symptoms related to seasonal allergies.
What special precautions should I follow?
Special Precautions for Using Alocril:
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to Nedocromil or other medications, especially if they are related to eye drops.
- Contact Lenses: Avoid wearing contact lenses while using Alocril unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
- Infections: If you have an eye infection or other eye problems, consult your doctor before using Alocril. It’s not meant to treat bacterial or viral eye infections.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor whether Alocril is safe for you to use.
- Driving and Operating Machinery: Be cautious when driving or operating machinery if you experience blurred vision or other vision-related side effects after using Alocril.
- Avoid Contamination: Prevent contamination by avoiding contact between the dropper tip and any surface, including your eyes or hands.
- Duration of Use: Use Alocril only for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended.
If you experience persistent irritation, discomfort, or any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Alocril does not have specific dietary restrictions or interactions. However, maintaining a healthy diet can support overall health and well-being. If you have any dietary concerns or specific conditions, consult your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Alocril, apply it as soon as you remember.
- Timing: If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
- Routine: Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Alocril (Nedocromil Ophthalmic) is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects. Common side effects include:
- Eye Irritation: Burning, stinging, or itching in the eyes right after applying the drops.
- Dry Eyes: A feeling of dryness or discomfort.
- Redness: Mild redness or irritation of the eyes.
- Watery Eyes: Increased tearing or watering of the eyes.
Less common but more serious side effects might include:
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- Persistent Eye Pain: Severe or persistent eye pain or discomfort.
- Vision Changes: Changes in vision, such as blurred vision or visual disturbances.
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but it’s important to monitor your response to the medication and seek advice if you have concerns.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
Storage and Disposal of Alocril:
- Storage:
- Keep Alocril at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture. Do not freeze.
- Store the medication in its original container with the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination.
- Disposal:
- Check the expiration date on the bottle and do not use it after the date has passed.
- Dispose of any unused or expired medication according to local regulations. Some areas have take-back programs for unused medications, or you may be able to dispose of them in your household trash after mixing with an undesirable substance (e.g., used coffee grounds).
- Do not flush medications down the toilet or sink unless instructed to do so.
In case of emergency/overdose
- Symptoms: An overdose of Alocril is unlikely due to its topical application. However, if you experience unusual symptoms or severe discomfort, contact your healthcare provider or poison control center.
- Action: If you accidentally apply more drops than prescribed, rinse your eye with lukewarm water. Contact your healthcare provider for further instructions.
- Severe Reactions: If you experience severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe eye pain, seek emergency medical help immediately.
What other information should I know?
- Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider may be needed to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and to adjust the dosage if necessary.
- Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, to avoid potential interactions.
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s close to the time for your next dose.
- Consistency: Use Alocril consistently as prescribed to get the most benefit. Do not stop using it without consulting your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve.
- Consult Your Doctor: Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about the medication.