Description
Ilevro Eye Drops (Nepafenac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory prodrug used to reduce pain and inflammation in the eyes. This medication works by blocking certain natural substances called prostaglandins in the body that cause pain and swelling. It is particularly used for treating post-cataract surgery discomfort.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C15H14N2O2 |
License |
US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability |
100% |
Legal status |
Rx-only |
Chemical Name |
Nepafenac |
Elimination half-life |
0.74 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
0.3% 3 ml |
Pregnancy |
Not recommended for use during pregnancy |
Brands |
Ilevro Eye Drops |
Protein binding |
approximately 83.5% |
PubChem CID |
151075 |
MedlinePlus |
a606007 |
ChEBI |
75922 |
ATC code |
S01BC10 |
DrugBank |
DB06802 |
KEGG |
D05143 |
Routes of administration |
Eye Drops |
Directions
Ilevro is typically applied to the affected eye once daily, beginning one day before cataract surgery, continuing on the day of surgery, and through the first two weeks of the postoperative period. An additional drop should be administered 30 to 120 minutes before surgery.
To apply the eye drops, tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pocket. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface to maintain sterility. Close your eye gently without blinking, and apply pressure to the inner corner of your eye with your finger for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed. Make sure to wash your hands immediately after using the eye drops to remove any medicine that may be present.
Ingredients
The primary ingredient in Ilevro Eye Drops is Nepafenac, an NSAID responsible for reducing inflammation and relieving pain in the eye.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using Ilevro Eye Drops if you have a known allergy to Nepafenac, other NSAIDs, or any ingredient in the eye drops.
Cautions
- Certain precautions may need to be taken into account before using Ilevro. Before you start using Ilevro, tell your doctor about any of the following:
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Ilevro, its active ingredient nepafenac, or any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Medications you are currently taking, particularly other eye drops or medications that could interact with Ilevro.
- Eye conditions, such as glaucoma, diabetes, and dry eye syndrome, as well as any other health problems like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or corneal denervation.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Ilevro during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully studied.
- If you have had eye surgery in the past or plan to undergo eye surgery, the risk of adverse events in the eye may be increased.
- Ilevro may increase the risk of bleeding. Use this medication with caution if you have known bleeding tendencies or are taking medications that may affect bleeding.
- Ilevro and other topical NSAIDs may slow or delay healing. If you are also using topical corticosteroids, this risk may be elevated. Exercise caution and consult your healthcare provider for monitoring.
- Prolonged use of Ilevro could result in adverse effects on the cornea, such as keratitis, epithelial breakdown, and even corneal perforation. People with specific conditions like diabetes or dry eye syndrome may be at increased risk.
- Using Ilevro more than one day before surgery or beyond 14 days post-surgery could increase the risk and severity of corneal problems.
- Ilevro should not be administered while using contact lenses. Remove your contact lenses before administering the drops, and consult your healthcare provider for guidance on when it's safe to reinsert them.
Side Effects
Ilevro may cause side effects. These may include cloudiness in the eye, worsened vision, the sensation of something being in the eye, high eye pressure, and eyes feeling sticky. Most of these side effects are mild and resolve as your body adjusts to the medication.
However, more serious side effects may occur, though they are rare. Hypersensitivity reactions, delayed healing, and increased bleeding time have been reported in some cases. Other potential side effects include vision problems, increased sensitivity to light, watery eyes, crusting or drainage from the eyes, and puffy eyelids. If you experience severe side effects, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
References:
Ilevro Prescribing Information. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis; 2020.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13847