Hi all for some unknown reason my GP has changed my celluvisc eye drops from the 5% wv to the 1% and my eyes are now very sore

[duster]

Just wondering if anyone else has had this reaction. I have been fine for the last 3 years .

[helvella Administrator]

According to the Patient Information Leaflets, the 0.5% contains "magnesium chloride hexahydrate" and "Small amounts of sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid may be added to bring the solution to the correct pH (a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the solution)." - whereas the 1.0% does not. This was a surprise to me as I had expected the ingredient lists to be identical!

From where I am sat, I am doubtful the relatively small differences would cause a noticeable effect.

I have no idea why the doctor would have prescribed the product that is twice the strength unless he was hoping it would last longer or improve its effect. It is about 50% more expensive.

Nevertheless, I think you have to consider whether you have an eye infection. You really need to get some help - can you get to your pharmacy? They can sell you some eye drops that would help with an infection. They can also handle returning the product if you and/or they think that is to blame.

Rod

[Fruitandnutcase in reply to helvella]

Might be worth going to a decent local optician - you will have a better chance of being seen there than the doctor. They will be able to tell you if you have an infection and what you need and with a bit of luck you can get it (form your surgery) and get sorted out before everywhere shuts down for Christmas.

[duster in reply to helvella]

Thank you all for your help. I found some of the 5% in the back of my cupboard and my eyes are all back to normal now. I will make sure my prescription is changed back. Have looked on Internet and see that the 5% is £2 more expensive each box so think this is why it's been changed.

[helvella Administrator in reply to duster]

Ah! I made a mistake earlier. The price difference I thought I saw was my eyes mis-reading.

You could well be right about why. But I am concerned that the product itself might have been contaminated. It is somewhat surprising that the fairly small difference would have such an effect on you.

[Jackie]

Hi I do not know the particular make but my GP used to give me ones with preservative in, both my eye surgeon and rheumy ( Sjogrens) always say they must be pure, ie just artificial teats.These are much more expensive. I am meant to use them many times a day. I am rationed or I have to buy them.

Have you looked them up on the WEB often more info than on the leaflet.?

Jackie.