Polyvinyl alcohol: Indication, Dosage, Side Effect, Precaution

This information is not country-specific. Please refer to the Singapore prescribing information.

Generic Medicine Info

Indications and Dosage

Ophthalmic
Dry eye

Adult: To relieve dryness of eyes and prevent further irritation: As 1.4% ophthalmic solution: Instil 1-2 drops onto the affected eye(s) as necessary.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy and lactation.

Adverse Reactions

Eye disorders: Temporary stinging sensation of the eye, blurred vision.

Patient Counseling Information

To avoid contamination, do not allow the tip of the bottle dropper to touch the eyes, fingertips or any other surface; replace the cap immediately after use. If another ophthalmic agent will be used with polyvinyl alcohol, separate the administration of the other agent by at least 5 minutes. Remove contact lenses prior to administration. Discontinue use and seek medical advice if eye pain, changes in vision, and continued eye redness or irritation occur, or if the condition worsens or persists for >72 hours.

Action

Description:
Mechanism of Action: Polyvinyl alcohol, a nonionic surfactant, is used as an ophthalmic lubricant. It protects and lubricates the mucous membrane surfaces of the eye, thereby relieving dryness and irritation. Additionally, it stabilises the tear film and increases the tear viscosity to prevent tear evaporation and drainage.

Storage

Store between 15-25°C. Do not use if the ophthalmic solution becomes cloudy or changes in colour.

MIMS Class

Ophthalmic Lubricants

References

Anon. Artificial Tears. Lexicomp Online. Hudson, Ohio. Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. https://online.lexi.com. Accessed 03/11/2023.

Artificial Tears Solution/Drops (Aru Pharma Inc.). DailyMed. Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed. Accessed 03/11/2023.

Artificial Tears. Gold Standard Drug Database in ClinicalKey [online]. Elsevier Inc. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed 28/09/2023.

Buckingham R (ed). Polyvinyl Alcohol. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference [online]. London. Pharmaceutical Press. https://www.medicinescomplete.com. Accessed 28/09/2023.

Joint Formulary Committee. Polyvinyl Alcohol. British National Formulary [online]. London. BMJ Group and Pharmaceutical Press. https://www.medicinescomplete.com. Accessed 28/09/2023.

Polyvinyl Alcohol Eye Drops 1.4% w/v (Aurolab). DailyMed. Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed. Accessed 28/09/2023.

Disclaimer: This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Polyvinyl alcohol from various references and is provided for your reference only. Therapeutic uses, prescribing information and product availability may vary between countries. Please refer to MIMS Product Monographs for specific and locally approved prescribing information. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, MIMS shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com