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EYEVIR eye ointment is an antiviral agent that is highly active against Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, with low toxicity to mammalian cells.
Composition:
- Aciclovir BP 3% w/w
- Benzalkonium Chloride solution BP 0.02% w/w
Pharmacology
Acyclovir in EYEVIR Eye ointment is a synthetic purine analogue with activity against HSV. Aciclovir is phosphorylated to the active compound aciclovir triphosphate after entry into a herpes infected cell. The first step in this process requires the presence of the viral-coded thymidine kinase. Aciclovir triphosphate acts as an inhibitor of and substrate for the herpes specified DNS polymerase preventing further viral DNA synthesis without affecting normal cellular processes.
Aciclovir is absorbed following application of a 3% ointment to the eye giving a relatively high concentration of 1.7µg/mL in the aqueous humour but negligible amounts in the blood.
Indications
EYEVIR Eye ointment is indicated for the treatment of Herpes simplex keratitis.
Dosage and administration
The dosage of ointment for all age groups is the same. A 10mm ribbon of the EYEVIR Eye ointment should be placed inside the lower conjunctival sac five times a day at approximately four hourly intervals. Treatment should continue for at least 3 days after healing.
Directions for use
- To improve flow of eye ointment, hold tube in hand for several minutes to warm before use.
- When opening eye ointment tube for the first time, squeeze out the first ¼ inch of ointment and discard, as it may be too dry.
- While looking up, squeeze a small amount of EYEVIR Eye ointment, about 10mm, inside lower lid.
- Close eye gently and roll eyeball in all directions while eye is closed.
Contraindications
This preparation is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to aciclovir or valaciclovir
Precautions
Patients should avoid wearing contact lenses when using this preparation.
This preparation is to be used within one month of opening the tube.
Warnings:
FOR OPHTHALMIC USE ONLY
Patients should be informed that transient mild stinging may occur immediately following application.
Pregnancy and lactation
A post-marketing aciclovir pregnancy registry has documented pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to any formulation of aciclovir. The registry findings have not shown an increase in the number of birth defects amongst aciclovir exposed subjects compared with the general population. Nevertheless the use of EYEVIR Eye ointment should be considered when the potential benefits outweigh the possibility of unknown risks.
Limited human data show that aciclovir is secreted in breast milk following systemic administration. However, the dosage received by a nursing infant following maternal use of eye ointment would be insignificant.
Drug interactions
No clinically significant interactions have been reported.
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