Why is this medication prescribed?

Nevanac is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient nepafenac. It is primarily prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation following cataract surgery. Cataract surgery involves the removal of a cloudy lens from the eye, and Nevanac helps in managing the associated discomfort and inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?

Nevanac is a brand name for nepafenac ophthalmic suspension, a medication used to reduce eye inflammation and pain following cataract surgery. It is important to note that it is always best to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or the medication’s packaging. However, I can provide you with some general guidelines on how Nevanac is typically used:

• Dosage: Nevanac is usually prescribed as one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily, beginning one day prior to cataract surgery, continued on the day of surgery, and for the next two weeks after surgery.
• Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the medication. Shake the Nevanac bottle well before use.
• Administration: Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the bottle upside down and squeeze it gently to instill one drop into the pocket of your eye. Try to avoid touching the eye or eyelid with the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
• Wipe away excess fluid: If there is excess fluid around the eye after applying the drop, you can use a clean tissue or cotton swab to gently blot it away. Avoid rubbing the eye.
• Timings: It is important to administer the drops at the prescribed times throughout the day. Setting reminders or following a schedule can help ensure you do not miss any doses.
• Contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Nevanac. You can reinsert your lenses 15 minutes after using the eye drops, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Remember, these are general instructions, and it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for precise directions on how to use Nevanac. They will consider your specific condition and medical history to provide you with the most accurate guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Nevanac, containing the active ingredient nepafenac, is primarily prescribed for reducing pain and inflammation after cataract surgery. However, it is important to note that Nevanac is specifically approved for this indication and its usage for other purposes should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Off-label use of medications should always be guided by medical expertise.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Nevanac, there are certain precautions to keep in mind. Here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to nepafenac or any other ingredients present in Nevanac. Allergic reactions may include itching, rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Nevanac during pregnancy or while breastfeeding has not been well established. It is important to discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding to assess the potential risks and benefits.
• Other eye conditions: If you have other eye conditions, such as a history of herpes simplex infection or other infections of the eye, it is crucial to inform your doctor. Nevanac may not be suitable for individuals with certain eye conditions, and alternative treatments may be recommended.
• Contact lenses: Nevanac contains benzalkonium chloride, which can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Nevanac eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Adverse effects: Nevanac may cause side effects such as eye irritation, burning, stinging, blurred vision, or increased sensitivity to light. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Drug interactions: It is important to inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, that you are taking. Certain medications may interact with Nevanac and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

Remember, these are general precautions, and it is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and individual circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Nevanac. You can continue with your regular diet while using this medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Nevanac, try to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Nevanac (nepafenac) may cause certain side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may not experience any at all. Common side effects of Nevanac may include:

• Eye irritation: This may manifest as burning, stinging, itching, or redness in the eyes.
• Blurred vision: Nevanac may temporarily affect your vision, causing it to become blurred. It should resolve on its own, but if it persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
• Increased sensitivity to light: Some individuals may become more sensitive to light while using Nevanac.
• Eye discomfort: You may experience a sensation of discomfort or foreign body sensation in the eye.
• Eye surface inflammation: In rare cases, Nevanac may cause inflammation or swelling of the surface of the eye.
• Allergic reactions: Although uncommon, allergic reactions to Nevanac can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s important to report any persistent or severe side effects to your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms and provide appropriate guidance. Additionally, this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and others may occur. If you have concerns about specific side effects or your individual risk factors, it is best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

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

• Storage: Nevanac eye drops should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze the medication. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Properly dispose of any unused or expired Nevanac eye drops. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities for the recommended method of disposal in your area.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or if you suspect an overdose of Nevanac, immediately contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. It is helpful to have the medication packaging or information available to provide to healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Follow instructions: Use Nevanac exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or frequency without consulting them.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare professionals involved in your care about your use of Nevanac. This includes doctors, surgeons, ophthalmologists, and pharmacists.
• Regular eye exams: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your eye health and assess the effectiveness of Nevanac.
• Avoid touching the dropper: When applying Nevanac eye drops, avoid touching the dropper tip to any surfaces, including your eyes. This helps prevent contamination.
• Other medications and eye drops: Inform your doctor about all other eye medications or eye drops you are using to ensure there are no interactions or adverse effects.
• Patient information leaflet: Read and understand the patient information leaflet provided with the medication. It contains important instructions and information about Nevanac.

Remember, this information is not exhaustive, and it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice and any specific instructions related to your situation.