Diclofenac Sodium is an anti-inflammatory eye drop used to reduce inflammation and pain after certain eye surgeries or injuries.
| Drug class | NSAID (Topical) |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Eye Drop |
| Common strength | 0.1% |
| Common Indian brands | Diclofenac 0.1% eye drops (multiple generics) |
| Prescription status | Prescription |
What Diclofenac Sodium is used for
Diclofenac Sodium eye drops are prescribed to help manage inflammation and pain in your eyes. Specifically, your doctor might recommend them for:
- Reducing inflammation after eye surgery.
- Relieving pain following a corneal abrasion (a scratch on the clear front surface of your eye).
- Managing pain after refractive surgery (procedures like LASIK that correct vision).
How it works
Diclofenac Sodium belongs to a group of medicines called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). When applied as eye drops, it works by reducing the production of certain natural substances in your eye that cause inflammation and pain. This helps to soothe your eye and make you more comfortable, especially after an injury or surgery.
How it’s used
Your ophthalmologist will provide specific instructions tailored to your condition. However, a common dosing pattern for Diclofenac Sodium 0.1% eye drops is to instill 1 drop into the affected eye 4 times a day. It is crucial to follow your doctor’s exact instructions regarding the frequency and duration of use. Do not stop using the drops or change your dosage without consulting your doctor.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Diclofenac 0.1% eye drops (multiple generics)
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Good to know
Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.
Precautions & side effects
While Diclofenac Sodium eye drops are effective for pain relief, especially for a painful corneal surface, it is important to use them only for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Prolonged use beyond the recommended period should be avoided. Always remember that this is a prescription eye medicine and must be used exactly as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.
Understanding Eye Inflammation and Pain
Our eyes are delicate organs, and like any part of the body, they can experience inflammation and pain due to various reasons, such as injury, infection, or surgery. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to protect itself, but sometimes it can cause discomfort, redness, swelling, and pain. When you undergo eye surgery, like cataract surgery or refractive surgery, or experience an injury like a corneal abrasion (a scratch on the surface of your eye), your eye’s natural healing process can involve inflammation. This inflammation, while a normal part of healing, can be painful and delay recovery if not managed properly. Medicines like Diclofenac Sodium eye drops are prescribed to help control this inflammation and pain, making your recovery smoother and more comfortable. By reducing the inflammatory response, these drops help your eye heal more effectively and alleviate the discomfort you might feel.
Correct Way to Use Eye Drops
Using eye drops correctly is essential for them to work effectively and to prevent contamination. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Wash Your Hands: Always start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water before touching your eyes or the eye drop bottle. This prevents germs from entering your eyes.
- Prepare the Bottle: If the bottle has a cap, twist it off carefully. Make sure the dropper tip does not touch any surface, including your fingers, to keep it sterile.
- Position Yourself: You can either lie down or tilt your head back while looking up. Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket.
- Instill the Drop: Hold the bottle upside down with your other hand, positioning the dropper tip directly over your eye. Squeeze the bottle gently to release one drop into the pocket you created. Try not to blink immediately.
- Close Your Eye: Gently close your eye for a minute or two. This helps the medicine absorb properly and prevents it from draining out too quickly. Avoid squeezing your eyes shut tightly.
- Clean Up: If any excess liquid runs down your cheek, gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
- Replace the Cap: Put the cap back on the bottle immediately and tightly. Do not rinse the dropper tip.
If you need to use more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different medications to allow each drop to be absorbed properly.
General Hygiene, Storage, and When to Seek Help
Maintaining good hygiene is paramount when using eye medicines. Never share your eye drops with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms, as this can spread infections. Always check the expiry date on the bottle and discard any expired medication. Once opened, eye drop bottles typically have a limited shelf life (often 28 days, but check the specific instructions on your bottle or ask your pharmacist), after which they should be discarded even if there is medicine left. Store your eye drops in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not store them in the bathroom, where humidity can be high.
It’s important to be vigilant about your eye health. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while using Diclofenac Sodium eye drops, such as increased redness, pain, swelling, blurred vision, or any unusual discharge, contact Pristine Eye Hospitals or your ophthalmologist immediately. These could be signs of an infection or another issue that requires prompt medical attention. Never hesitate to seek professional medical advice if you have concerns about your eye condition or your medication.
Frequently asked questions
What is Diclofenac Sodium eye drop used for?
Diclofenac Sodium eye drops are used to reduce inflammation and pain in the eye. This includes post-operative inflammation, pain after a corneal abrasion (a scratch on the eye's surface), and pain following refractive surgery.
How does Diclofenac Sodium eye drop work?
Diclofenac Sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing the production of natural substances in your eye that cause inflammation and pain, thereby providing relief and aiding recovery.
What are the common brands of Diclofenac Sodium eye drops in India?
Diclofenac Sodium 0.1% eye drops are available from multiple generic manufacturers in India. Your doctor or pharmacist can guide you on the specific brand available.
How should I use Diclofenac Sodium eye drops?
Typically, you should instill 1 drop into the affected eye 4 times a day, or as directed by your ophthalmologist. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosage and duration.
Do I need a prescription for Diclofenac Sodium eye drops?
Yes, Diclofenac Sodium eye drops are a prescription medicine. You should only use them under the guidance and prescription of a qualified ophthalmologist.
What precautions should I take while using Diclofenac Sodium eye drops?
While effective for pain relief, especially for a painful corneal surface, it's important to limit the duration of use as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it for longer than recommended. Always use it exactly as directed by your ophthalmologist and do not self-medicate.
References
- Eye Diseases – MedlinePlus
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
- StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.