What are ophthalmic ointments
Ophthalmic ointments are pharmaceutical preparations that are applied directly to the eye to treat or improve a specific eye condition.
Similar to eye drops, ophthalmic ointments are also indicated in the treatment of all superficial ocular inflammations, including those with infectious and allergic origin.
The drugs formulated in the form of ophthalmic ointment make the administration of the active ingredient extremely easy even if, as we will see, the application of the substance in the eye can cause a temporary clouding of the vision, burning and redness.
Indications
Based on the active ingredient contained in them, ophthalmic ointments are indicated for the treatment of:
- Blepharitis: general inflammation of the free edge of the eyelid
- Keratitis: inflammation of the cornea
- Allergic conjunctivitis: inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by allergic reactions
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: inflammatory process (inflammation) of the conjunctiva related to bacterial insults
- Viral conjunctivitis: inflammation of the conjunctiva dependent on viral infections
- Glaucoma: a subtle pathological condition characterized by an increase in intraocular pressure. When not treated in time, it can lead to blindness.
- Eyelid irritation (generic): it may depend on infection, trauma or the presence of a foreign body in the eye
- Stye: inflammation of the sebaceous glands at the level of the eyelashes
- Dry eye (dry eye syndrome)
- Corneal ulcers: serious lesions induced by a corneal infection
- Uveitis: inflammation involving the uveal tract, composed of iris, choroid and ciliary body.
Mode of use
Despite being quite simple, the application of ophthalmic ointment requires a certain precision and delicacy from the hand of the person performing the maneuver.
Before proceeding with the application, it is essential to wash the hands, which must be carried out with particular care to prevent germs or dirt particles from passing from the skin of the hands to the eye.
After checking that the product is in perfect condition and has not expired, open the ophthalmic ointment taking care to place the cap on a table on the side where it is not closed ("up") to avoid possible contamination.
By gently bending the head backwards and directing the gaze upwards, with the help of the thumb (or the forefinger) the lower eyelid of the eye is gently lowered into which the ointment must be given. At this point, squeeze the tube with the thumb and middle finger of the other hand: indicatively, make 1 cm of product escape into the conjunctival sac, that sort of pocket that originates below the lower eyelid, and offers a sliding plane for the eyeball.
After applying the ointment, gently close the eyelids ; to facilitate the distribution of the product, it is advisable to roll your eyes under the eyelids.
If possible, avoid squeezing your eyes with force to keep the ointment from coming out.
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To prevent the ointment from escaping after releasing the lower eyelid, the advice is to gently grasp the upper eyelid (of the eye where it is applied), lifting it with equal attention until the eyelid margins are juxtaposed.
To prolong the contact time between the ophthalmic ointment and the eye, it is possible to proceed with an occlusive bandage.
After application, close the container firmly .
Put the tube of ointment in the trash after the treatment cycle.
The dosage (daily frequency of application and duration of therapy) depends on the ocular disorder to be treated.
Warnings and recommendations
Before applying the product in the eye, always make the doctor aware of the symptoms and any allergies (known or presumed) to drugs and other substances. It is also necessary to report any medications you are using - especially those for ophthalmic use - to avoid the risk of drug interactions.
To preserve the integrity and effectiveness of the product, it is recommended to keep the tube of ophthalmic ointment in a cool and dry environment, away from light (unless otherwise indicated in the illustrative leaflet).
The ophthalmic ointment, like any other type of drug, must be used at the right dosage (dosage), respecting the indications provided by the doctor or pharmacist to the letter. When used improperly, ointments for ophthalmic use - especially antibiotic ones - can cause sensitization.
Particular attention in the use of these pharmacological preparations must be placed by pregnant women: some active ingredients contained in the product could harm the health of the unborn child. For this reason, it is recommended to always report to the doctor the possible state of pregnancy (even if presumed).
Once the product is opened, it is a good rule to check the validity of the drug (expiry date): some ophthalmic ointments, in particular those intended for the treatment of eye infections, lose their therapeutic efficacy after 5-7 days from the opening.
It is recommended not to use the same tube of ointment for more people.
Keep the product out of the reach of children.
Advantages and disadvantages
In a sense, ophthalmic ointments are more advantageous than eye drops because the pharmaceutical formulation allows the active ingredient to remain in contact with the conjunctiva for longer periods.
However, eye ointments are not always considered excellent substitutes for common eye drops: this is because the ointment formulations have the disadvantage of creating a blurring of sight which, however transitory, can cause considerable discomfort.
For this reason, many doctors advise to prefer eye drops during the day and to use ophthalmic ointments in the evening before bedtime.
The transient blurring of vision is the most important limit of application of ophthalmic ointments.
In addition to blurred vision, the use of ophthalmic ointments can induce other unwelcome side effects, such as in particular:
- Eye redness
- Plentiful initial tearing
- Awareness raising reactions
- Eye burning sensation
Immediately report any other side effects or aggravation of symptoms to the doctor following the application of the ophthalmic ointment.
