Locations:

Nepafenac Eye Suspension

What is this medication?

NEPAFENAC (ne paf FEN ak) treats eye pain and inflammation after a procedure. It works by decreasing inflammation in the eye. It belongs to a group of medications called NSAIDs.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): ILEVRO, Nevanac

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

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

  • Bleeding disorder
  • Contact lenses
  • Diabetes
  • Dry eyes, other eye problems or recent eye surgery
  • Lung or breathing disease, like asthma
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to nepafenac, 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. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not wear contact lenses while using this medication. Wash your hands before and after using the drops. Shake the bottle well before use. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not rub your eyes. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. If you are using more than one medication in the eye, the medicines should be used 5 minutes apart. Use your medication at regular intervals. Do not use your medication more often than directed.

Advertisement

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

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?

  • Medications that treat or prevent blood clots, such as warfarin
  • Other eye drops, such as corticosteroids

Do not use any other eye products without asking 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?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Do not use these eye drops for longer than prescribed by your care team.

Avoid wearing contact lenses while using this medication.

This medication can make your eyes more sensitive to sunlight. It might help to wear sunglasses while using this medication.

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
  • Bleeding in the front of the eye, including the white, iris, or pupil
  • Change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
  • New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge

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

  • Blurry vision
  • Irritation at application site
  • Increased tears after use

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 between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

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.

Advertisement

Copyright ©2025 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

Ad
Call Appointment Center 866.320.4573
Questions 216.444.2200