What is Diclofenac Ophthalmic: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Diclofenac ophthalmic is a prescription eye drop that helps reduce pain and inflammation in your eyes. It belongs to a group of medicines called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which work by blocking certain chemicals in your body that cause swelling and discomfort.

This eye medication is commonly prescribed after eye surgeries or to treat specific eye conditions that cause inflammation. Your doctor might recommend it when your eyes need targeted relief from pain and swelling that other treatments haven't adequately addressed.

What is Diclofenac Ophthalmic Used For?

Diclofenac ophthalmic treats pain and inflammation in your eyes, particularly after certain medical procedures. It's most commonly prescribed following cataract surgery to help your eyes heal more comfortably and reduce post-surgical swelling.

Your doctor might also prescribe these eye drops for other eye surgeries or procedures where inflammation control is important. Some eye care specialists use it to manage pain from corneal injuries or other inflammatory eye conditions, though this depends on your specific situation.

The medication works best when inflammation is the main cause of your eye discomfort. It's particularly effective for surgical recovery because it targets the specific inflammatory response that happens after eye procedures.

How Does Diclofenac Ophthalmic Work?

Diclofenac ophthalmic works by blocking an enzyme called cyclooxygenase in your eye tissues. This enzyme normally produces substances called prostaglandins, which trigger pain and inflammation when your eyes are injured or irritated.

By stopping this enzyme from working, the medication reduces the production of these inflammatory substances right where you need it most. This targeted approach means the medicine works directly in your eye area without affecting your entire body significantly.

The medication is considered moderately strong for eye treatments. It's more potent than over-the-counter eye drops but gentler than some stronger prescription anti-inflammatory medications, making it a balanced choice for most eye inflammation issues.

How Should I Take Diclofenac Ophthalmic?

Use diclofenac ophthalmic exactly as your doctor prescribes, typically one drop in the affected eye at specific intervals. Most people use it 2-4 times daily, but your doctor will give you precise instructions based on your condition and needs.

Before applying the drops, wash your hands thoroughly and shake the bottle gently if instructed. Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and squeeze one drop into this space without letting the tip touch your eye or eyelid.

After applying the drop, close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner near your nose for about one minute. This helps prevent the medication from draining away too quickly and reduces the chance of it affecting other parts of your body.

You don't need to take this medication with food or milk since it goes directly into your eye. However, wait at least 5 minutes between different eye medications if you're using multiple drops.

How Long Should I Take Diclofenac Ophthalmic For?

Most people use diclofenac ophthalmic for 1-2 weeks, though your treatment length depends on why you're using it. After cataract surgery, you'll typically use it for about two weeks to help with the healing process.

For other eye conditions, your doctor might recommend a shorter or longer treatment period. Some people need it for just a few days, while others with more complex conditions might use it for several weeks under close medical supervision.

Never stop using the medication earlier than prescribed, even if your eyes feel better. Stopping too soon can allow inflammation to return, which might slow your healing or cause complications.

What Are the Side Effects of Diclofenac Ophthalmic?

Most people tolerate diclofenac ophthalmic well, but some side effects can occur. The most common ones affect your eyes directly and are usually mild and temporary.

Here are the side effects you might experience, starting with the most common ones that many people notice:

• Temporary burning or stinging when you first apply the drops
• Mild eye irritation or redness
• Blurred vision for a few minutes after application
• Feeling like something is in your eye
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Watery or dry eyes

These common side effects usually improve as your eyes adjust to the medication. Most people find they become less noticeable after the first few days of use.

Less common but more serious side effects need immediate medical attention. While these don't happen often, it's important to know what to watch for:

• Severe eye pain that gets worse instead of better
• Vision changes that don't improve quickly
• Signs of eye infection like thick discharge or severe redness
• Allergic reactions with swelling around your eyes or face
• Persistent headaches or nausea

Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these more serious symptoms. They can help determine if the medication is right for you or if you need a different treatment approach.

Who Should Not Take Diclofenac Ophthalmic?

Some people shouldn't use diclofenac ophthalmic because of increased risks or potential complications. Your doctor will review your medical history to make sure it's safe for you.

You should avoid this medication if you're allergic to diclofenac or other NSAID medications like ibuprofen or aspirin. People with certain bleeding disorders also need to be cautious, as NSAIDs can affect blood clotting.

Several health conditions require special consideration before using these eye drops:

• History of severe allergic reactions to NSAIDs
• Active eye infections or injuries
• Bleeding disorders or taking blood-thinning medications
• Severe dry eye syndrome
• Recent eye surgery other than what it's prescribed for
• Pregnancy, especially in the third trimester

Your doctor will weigh the benefits against potential risks for your specific situation. They might recommend alternative treatments or adjust your care plan if any of these conditions apply to you.

Diclofenac Ophthalmic Brand Names

Diclofenac ophthalmic is available under several brand names, with Voltaren being the most commonly recognized one. Your pharmacy might dispense the medication under different names, but the active ingredient remains the same.

Other brand names include Voltaren Ophtha in some countries and various generic versions that simply list "diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution" on the label. The concentration and effectiveness are equivalent regardless of the brand name.

Your insurance coverage might prefer certain brands over others, so your pharmacist can help you find the most cost-effective option. Always check with your doctor before switching between different brands to ensure continuity in your treatment.

Diclofenac Ophthalmic Alternatives

Several alternatives exist if diclofenac ophthalmic isn't right for you. Your doctor might recommend other NSAID eye drops like ketorolac (Acular) or bromfenac (Prolensa), which work similarly but have different formulations.

Steroid eye drops like prednisolone are another option, particularly for more severe inflammation. These are stronger anti-inflammatory medications but come with different side effects and require more careful monitoring.

For mild inflammation, your doctor might suggest artificial tears or cool compresses as gentler alternatives. Some people benefit from combination treatments that use multiple approaches to manage their eye condition effectively.

Is Diclofenac Ophthalmic Better Than Ketorolac?

Both diclofenac ophthalmic and ketorolac are effective NSAID eye drops, but they have some differences that might make one more suitable for your situation. Diclofenac is often preferred for post-surgical care because it tends to cause less stinging upon application.

Ketorolac might be stronger for severe pain relief, but it can cause more initial discomfort when you apply it. Some people find diclofenac gentler on their eyes, especially if they have sensitive eyes or need longer treatment periods.

Your doctor will choose based on your specific condition, surgery type, and how your eyes typically react to medications. Both medications are equally effective for most eye inflammation issues, so the choice often comes down to your comfort and individual response.