Hyaluronate Sodium Ophthalmic

What is hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic?

Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic (Remend®, I-drop®, Oculenis®) is a lubricating topical eye drop. It is used in dogs and cats to help lubricate and moisturize the eye and to minimize dryness and irritation.

It is often used to support pets with decreased tear production, such as pets with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye). Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic drops can be used to accelerate healing for pets with eye injuries.

There are many brands of hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic drops that are labeled for human over-the-counter use. These drops are often used off label (extra label) in dogs, cats, and other animals. 

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic given?

• Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic comes as liquid eye drops that are instilled directly into the eye.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions and give this medication exactly as prescribed.
• Wash your hands before administering this medication.
• Do not touch the dropper tip to your pet’s eye or any other surface, to prevent contamination.
• If any residue is left on your pet’s face after giving the eye drops, gently wipe it off with a damp cloth or tissue.
• If you are giving your pet more than one eye medication, wait 5 minutes between each medication. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye to absorb the drops.
• If you are having difficulty applying this medication or your pet does not accept the treatment, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips to help with administration and to reduce the stress of medication time.

This medication should take effect immediately and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic drops may cause the following side effects:

• Eye stinging, burning on application
• Pain on application
• Eye redness
• Sensitivity to light

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic in:

• Pets who have had a previous adverse reaction to these ophthalmic drops

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, and herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding when your pet needs to be rechecked and what tests may must be performed before and during treatment with this drug.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects. 
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store hyaluronate sodium ophthalmic?

• Store at controlled room temperature or in the refrigerator between 36°F and 77°F (2°C and 25°C). Do not freeze.
• If refrigerated, allow the drops to come to room temperature before use. 
• Protect from light.
• Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Ask your veterinarian for specific disposal instructions. Do not flush medicines down the sink or toilet unless instructed to do so.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.