Artificial Tears Eye Ointment

What is this medication?

ARTIFICIAL TEARS (ahr tuh FISH uhl teerz) treats discomfort caused by dry eyes. It works by moisturizing and protecting the outer surface of your eyes.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Advanced Eye Relief Night Time, Altalube, Artificial Tears, Eye Lubricant, GenTeal Night-time PM, GenTeal PM, GenTeal Tears Severe Night-Time, Lubricant PM, LubriFresh P.M., Moisture Eyes PM, Puralube, Refresh Lacri-Lube, Refresh P.M., Reliable-1 P.M., Soothe Night Time, Soothe Nighttime, Sterilube Nighttime Relief, Stye Sterile Lubricant, Systane Nighttime, Tears Naturale PM

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Change in vision
• Eye infection or trauma
• Wear contact lenses
• An unusual or allergic reaction to artificial tears, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the end of the ointment tube to apply a thin layer of the ointment to the inside of your eyelid. Close the eye gently to spread the ointment. Wipe away any residue with a clean tissue. Do not use your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be given to children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

If you experience eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness or irritation of the eye, or if your eye condition gets worse or lasts longer than 72 hours, discontinue use and consult your care team.

To avoid contamination of this product, do not touch the tip of the container to any surface. Do not share this medication with others. If the product changes color, do not use.

If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before putting the ointment in your eyes. Wait at least 15 minutes after putting the ointment in your eyes before putting your contact lenses back in.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Blurry vision
• Eye irritation or itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.