The Web Health

Systane

Generic name: ocular lubricant [OK-yoo-lar-LOO-bri-kant]
Brand names: Alcon Tears (Dry Eye Relief), Artelac Nighttime (Artificial Tears), Bion Tears (Artificial Tears), and Advanced Eye Relief Dry Eye Tears.
Drug class: Ophthalmic irrigations and lubricants

What is Systane?

This leaflet does not list all the brands or forms of ocular lubricant. Adults can use Systane to treat dry eye irritation and burning. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Systane.

Side effects of Systane

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.

If you experience:

  • After taking medication, you may experience eye irritation, burning, or stinging sensations.
  • Eye pain
  • Vision changes

Side effects of Systane include:

  • Mild eye irritation or burning;
  • Itching or redness in your eyes
  • Watery eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Light sensitivity

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warnings

Do not use Systane for treating or preventing an eye infection.

Before you take this drug

If you have an allergy to systane, then it is best not to use the product. This medication will not prevent or treat an eye infection.

If you suspect that you may have an infection, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you can use Systane. Inform your physician immediately if you are pregnant or nursing.

How to take Systane?

Follow all instructions or guides included with your medication and adhere to its label's directions. Follow the directions on the label. Systane should be used only after washing your hands. Systane should not be used, and you should contact your pharmacist immediately if it appears cloudy or if its color has changed.

Avoid touching the tip or placing it directly on your eye. Contamination of eye dropper tips or ointment tubes may lead to serious vision problems if they become compromised. If your symptoms don't improve or worsen while taking Systane, call your doctor. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

When needed, Systane should be used. You should not take any missed doses if you have a regular dosing regimen. Never use two doses in one go.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses of ocular moisturizer are not dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, call 1-800-222-1222 or the Poison Help Line for immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Systane can cause blurred vision. Do not drive or do any hazardous activities until you have determined how Systane will affect you. You should only use eye drops prescribed by your doctor.

Interaction with other drug

Other drugs you take will unlikely impact the eye medicine that has been applied topically. Many drugs interact. Tell your doctor all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.