ophthalmic irrigation (intraocular)

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Pronunciation: off THAL mik ir i GAE tion (IN tra OK yoo lar)

Brand: Balanced Salt Solution, BSS, BSS Plus, Endosol Extra, Navstel

What is the most important information I should know about intraocular ophthalmic irrigation?

After surgery, call your doctor if you have vision problems, eye pain or redness, or increased sensitivity to light.

What is intraocular ophthalmic irrigation?

Intraocular ophthalmic (inside the eye) irrigation is a sterile cleansing solution.

Intraocular ophthalmic irrigation is used to maintain the natural condition of the eye during a surgical procedure such as cataract surgery.

Intraocular ophthalmic irrigation may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving intraocular ophthalmic irrigation?

To make sure intraocular ophthalmic irrigation is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • diabetes; or
  • a history of glaucoma.

It is not known whether intraocular ophthalmic irrigation will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether intraocular ophthalmic irrigation passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is intraocular ophthalmic irrigation given?

Intraocular ophthalmic irrigation is injected into the eye during surgery. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because you will receive intraocular ophthalmic irrigation in a surgical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while after receiving intraocular ophthalmic irrigation?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of intraocular ophthalmic irrigation?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • vision problems;
  • eye pain or redness; or
  • increased sensitivity to light.

Common side effects may include:

  • headache; or
  • mild eye discomfort.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect intraocular ophthalmic irrigation?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on intraocular ophthalmic irrigation used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about intraocular ophthalmic irrigation.


Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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