Viroptic
Generic name:trifluridine ophthalmic [ trye-FLURE-i-deen-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class:Ophthalmic anti-infectives
What is Viroptic?
Trifluridine is an antiviral medicine that fights infections that are caused by certain viruses.
Viroptic (for the eyes) is used to treat eye infections caused by herpes simplex virus, which can lead to swelling or ulcers in the eyelids or cornea (surface of the eyeball).
Viroptic will not treat an infection that is caused by bacteria or fungus.
Viroptic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Viroptic if you are allergic to trifluridine.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether trifluridine ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Viroptic is not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old.
How should I use Viroptic?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
The initial dose of this medicine is 1 drop into the affected eye every 2 hours while you are awake. Once your condition improves, you may need to keep using the medication 4 times daily for another 7 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
You may need eye exams to help your doctor determine how long to treat you with trifluridine. In most cases, you should not use this medicine for longer than 21 days.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
To apply the eye drops:
Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.
Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has ch...
