Freshfil Mono1%

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium ophthalmic solution is used as an artificial tear substitute for the temporary relief of burning, stinging, and irritation due to dryness of the eye, and to protect the eye from further irritation.

Contains Freshfil Mono 1% as the sole active ingredient in a sterile ophthalmic solution, gel, or preservative-free single-use vial, commonly available in concentrations such as 0.5% and 1%. Confirm the exact concentration and formulation (solution versus gel) on the specific product's own label, since these affect viscosity and dosing frequency.

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is a widely used, single-ingredient artificial tear product for relieving the symptoms of dry eye disease. As a cellulose-derived polymer, it increases the viscosity and water-retention of the tear film when applied to the eye, providing lubrication and temporary relief from the burning, stinging, and grittiness associated with dry eyes. It is available in various concentrations and viscosities, including thinner solutions for frequent daytime use and thicker gel formulations for longer-lasting relief, such as overnight.

Therapeutic Class: Ophthalmic Lubricant (Artificial Tears)

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is a water-soluble polymer that increases the viscosity of the tear film and helps retain moisture on the ocular surface. It is not significantly absorbed into the systemic circulation with normal topical ophthalmic use, contributing to its well-established, favourable safety profile even with frequent or long-term use.

• Wash hands before use
• Tilt the head back and instill the drop(s) into the lower eyelid pocket
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface, to prevent contamination
• Vision may be temporarily blurred immediately after application; avoid driving until vision clears
• Do not use a solution that has changed colour or become cloudy, unless the specific product's label indicates this is a normal appearance for that formulation

No clinically significant drug interactions are established for this topical ophthalmic lubricant, given minimal systemic absorption. If using other eye drops or ointments at the same time, space them apart by a few minutes, and apply any thicker gel or ointment formulation last.

Common side effects

• Temporary blurred vision immediately after instillation
• Mild stinging or irritation on application

Rare but serious effects (seek medical attention)

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis: rash, swelling, difficulty breathing (rare, but has been reported)
• Persistent eye pain, redness, or vision changes, which may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical evaluation rather than continued self-treatment

Pregnancy

Given minimal systemic absorption from topical ophthalmic use, Freshfil Mono 1% is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy; discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns.

Breastfeeding

Given minimal systemic absorption, this product is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.

• Stop use and consult a doctor if you experience eye pain, notice a change in vision, if redness or irritation persists or worsens, or if symptoms last more than 72 hours.
• Avoid driving or operating machinery immediately after use, given temporary blurred vision.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface, to prevent contaminating the solution.
• Preservative-containing multi-dose bottles should not be used beyond the manufacturer's recommended period after opening; preservative-free single-use vials should be discarded after each use.

Overdose in the conventional sense is not applicable to this topical ophthalmic lubricant, given its excellent safety profile and lack of significant systemic absorption. If accidentally swallowed, no significant harm would typically be expected, but contact a doctor or pharmacist for advice if a large amount is ingested, particularly by a child.

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, with the cap tightly closed after use, as directed on the specific product's label. Discard after the labeled expiry date or the manufacturer's specified in-use period once opened.

• Children: Can generally be used for dry eye symptoms; follow the specific product's age recommendations and consult a doctor for infants or young children.
• Elderly: Commonly used in this population, given the higher prevalence of dry eye with age; no specific dose adjustment is required.
• Contact lens wearers: Follow the specific product's instructions, since some formulations are designed for use with lenses in place while others should be used only when lenses are removed.

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium can be used as needed for occasional dryness, or on an ongoing, regular basis for chronic dry eye, as advised by an eye doctor. If symptoms persist beyond 72 hours of self-treatment, or worsen, medical evaluation is recommended rather than continued use.

Drug Class: Cellulose-derivative ocular lubricant

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium coats the surface of the eye with a smooth, lubricating film that mimics the moisture-retaining and friction-reducing properties of natural tears. This helps relieve the discomfort of dry eye by reducing friction during blinking and slowing the evaporation of moisture from the eye's surface.

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium can be used in children for dry eye or eye irritation, following the specific product's labeled instructions; consult a doctor before use in infants or very young children.