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Celluvisc

Celluvisc

Active Ingredient: Carmellose sodium 1%
From£34.00

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The medical information on this site has been reviewed by Dr. Ross Elledge (GMC registered) and is provided for educational purposes. It does not replace a face-to-face consultation with your GP or specialist. Always follow the advice of your prescribing doctor and read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medication.

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Medical Information

About This Medicine

Celluvisc contains carmellose sodium (carboxymethylcellulose), a lubricating eye drop used to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

It acts as an artificial tear, supplementing the natural tear film and providing sustained moisture to the ocular surface.

Dry eye disease results from either insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation, leading to symptoms such as grittiness, burning, foreign body sensation, blurred vision, and eye fatigue.

Celluvisc provides a viscous solution that adheres to the ocular surface longer than standard saline drops, offering prolonged relief.

Celluvisc is preservative-free, supplied in single-use vials (minims), making it particularly suitable for patients who are sensitive to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride.

It is also safe for use with all types of contact lenses.

The preservative-free formulation is important for patients requiring frequent application, as repeated exposure to preservatives can itself cause ocular surface damage.

Usage & Dosage

Wash hands before use. Twist off the top of a single-use vial. Tilt your head back slightly, pull down the lower eyelid, and instil 1-2 drops into the affected eye.

Blink gently to distribute the solution. Discard any remaining solution in the vial after use — do not store opened vials. Use as often as needed throughout the day.

If using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between different preparations.

Instil 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) as often as required.

There is no strict maximum frequency — many patients use drops 4-6 times daily, though some with severe dry eye may need them more frequently. Each single-use vial is for one application only.

If symptoms are worst in the morning, keep vials at the bedside for immediate use upon waking.

Side Effects

Very common: transient blurred vision immediately after instillation (resolves within a few minutes as the drop spreads across the eye). Common: mild stinging or discomfort on application.

Uncommon: eyelid crusting or sticky sensation. Allergic reactions are extremely rare but possible. No significant systemic side effects as the product acts locally on the eye surface only.

Warnings & Precautions

Single-use vials should not be reused or stored after opening, as bacterial contamination can occur in the absence of preservatives. Do not touch the tip of the vial to the eye or any other surface.

If you experience persistent eye pain, changes in vision, or worsening redness, consult your doctor promptly as these may indicate a condition requiring different treatment.

Transient blurring after instillation means you should wait until vision clears before driving.

Contraindications

Known allergy to carmellose sodium or any other ingredient in the formulation. Not intended for the treatment of eye infections.

If you have an eye injury or recent eye surgery, consult your ophthalmologist before using any over-the-counter eye drops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is preservative-free important?
Preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride can damage the corneal surface with repeated use, worsening dry eye symptoms over time. Preservative-free drops like Celluvisc avoid this problem and are recommended for frequent use.
Can I use Celluvisc with contact lenses?
Yes, Celluvisc is preservative-free and compatible with all types of contact lenses, including soft lenses. You can instil the drops while wearing lenses without needing to remove them first.
How often should I use Celluvisc?
Use as often as needed to relieve symptoms. Most patients find 4-6 times daily sufficient, but there is no maximum limit. If you need drops very frequently, discuss with your doctor whether additional treatments may be beneficial.
Can I reuse an opened vial later in the day?
The manufacturer recommends discarding the vial after a single use because there is no preservative to prevent bacterial growth. Some patients use one vial for both eyes at the same sitting, which is acceptable.
Is Celluvisc suitable for severe dry eye?
Celluvisc 1% is suitable for mild to moderate dry eye. For severe dry eye, your ophthalmologist may recommend a higher viscosity product or additional treatments such as anti-inflammatory drops or punctal plugs.
Medically Reviewed

Dr. Ross Elledge

Consultant Surgeon · Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Verified Healthcare Professional