Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is an eye medicine used to reduce swelling in the cornea, often prescribed for conditions like Fuchs' dystrophy and bullous keratopathy.
| Drug class | Hypertonic |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Eye Ointment |
| Common strength | 5% – 6% |
| Common Indian brands | Sodium chloride 5%/6% ointment (generics) |
| Prescription status | Prescription / OTC |
What Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is used for
Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is primarily used to treat corneal oedema, which is swelling of the cornea, the clear front part of your eye. This swelling can cause blurry vision and discomfort.
It is particularly helpful for corneal oedema that is:
- Worst upon waking in the morning.
This medicine is often prescribed for specific eye conditions such as:
- Fuchs’ dystrophy: A genetic condition where cells in the cornea gradually die off, leading to fluid buildup and swelling.
- Bullous keratopathy: A condition where blisters form on the cornea due to damage to the inner layer of the cornea, often after eye surgery, causing significant swelling.
By reducing this swelling, Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment helps to improve vision and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.
How it works
Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment works by drawing excess water out of the swollen cornea. The cornea needs to be clear and precisely shaped for good vision. When it swells due to conditions like Fuchs’ dystrophy or bullous keratopathy, it becomes cloudy and vision blurs.
This ointment contains a higher concentration of salt (sodium chloride) than the natural fluids in your eye. This creates an osmotic effect, meaning it pulls the extra fluid from the swollen corneal tissue into the tear film, from where it can be cleared away. By removing this excess water, the ointment helps to reduce the swelling, making the cornea clearer and improving your vision.
How it’s used
Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is an eye ointment that needs to be applied carefully to your eye. Your ophthalmologist will provide specific instructions on how often and when to use it.
Typically, this ointment is applied:
- At bedtime: This is the most common time to apply the ointment, as its vision-blurring effect is less disruptive while you sleep.
- In the mornings if needed: In some cases, your doctor might advise you to use it in the morning as well, especially if your corneal swelling is severe upon waking.
Always wash your hands thoroughly before applying the ointment. Pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and then gently squeeze a small amount of ointment (usually a thin strip) into this pocket. Close your eye gently for a minute or two to allow the ointment to spread. Avoid touching the tip of the ointment tube to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
Remember, consistency is key for this medicine to be effective. Use it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Sodium chloride 5%/6% ointment (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 Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is generally safe and effective when used as directed, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Stinging sensation: It is common to experience a temporary stinging or burning sensation immediately after applying the ointment. This usually subsides quickly. If the stinging is severe or persists, please contact your ophthalmologist.
- Blurred vision: This ointment can temporarily blur your vision after application. This is why it is often recommended for use at bedtime. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears.
- Prescription medicine: This is a prescription eye medicine. Use it only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.
- Contamination: Always wash your hands before applying the ointment. Do not touch the tip of the tube to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
- Storage: Store the ointment as instructed by your pharmacist, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Other eye medicines: If you are using other eye drops or ointments, discuss the order and timing of application with your doctor. Generally, ointments are applied last.
- Allergic reactions: While rare, if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, severe itching, significant swelling of the eyelids, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
Always follow your doctor’s advice and report any unusual or persistent side effects.
Understanding Corneal Oedema
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye. It plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina, allowing you to see clearly. For the cornea to function optimally, it must remain transparent and maintain a precise curvature. Sometimes, due to various reasons, the cornea can swell, a condition known as corneal oedema. This swelling can cause the cornea to become hazy or cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, and sometimes discomfort. The blurriness is often worse in the mornings because, during sleep, tear evaporation is reduced, and the natural pumping action that keeps the cornea clear is less active. Conditions like Fuchs’ dystrophy, a genetic disorder affecting the inner layer of the cornea, and bullous keratopathy, often a complication after eye surgery, are common causes of persistent corneal oedema. Managing corneal oedema is vital for preserving vision and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. Your ophthalmologist will diagnose the underlying cause of your corneal oedema and recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include medicines like Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment.
Correct Application of Eye Ointment
Applying eye ointment correctly is essential for its effectiveness and to prevent contamination. Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the ointment unless your doctor advises otherwise. To apply the ointment, gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket. Hold the ointment tube above your eye, being careful not to let the tip touch your eye or eyelashes. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment (usually about 1 cm long, or as directed by your doctor) into the pocket. After applying, gently close your eye for 1-2 minutes. Avoid blinking excessively or rubbing your eye immediately after application, as this can push the ointment out. You may experience temporary blurred vision or a mild stinging sensation, which is normal. Wipe away any excess ointment around your eye with a clean tissue. If you need to apply other eye drops, wait at least 5-10 minutes after the drops before applying the ointment, as ointments can create a barrier that prevents drops from being absorbed. Always replace the cap tightly after use.
General Eye Care, Hygiene, and When to Seek Help
Maintaining good eye hygiene is paramount when using any eye medication. Always wash your hands before and after touching your eyes or applying medication. Never share your eye ointment with anyone else, as this can spread infections. Store your Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture, and out of reach of children. Check the expiry date on the tube and discard the ointment after the recommended period (usually 28 days after opening, or as advised by your pharmacist), even if there is still some left. Using expired or contaminated medication can be harmful. It’s important to keep your follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist so they can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment if necessary. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, redness, discharge, significant vision changes, or if the stinging or blurring from the ointment becomes severe or persistent, contact your ophthalmologist immediately. This page provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment specific to your condition.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment used for?
Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is used to treat corneal oedema, which is swelling of the cornea (the clear front part of your eye). It's often prescribed for conditions like Fuchs' dystrophy and bullous keratopathy, especially when the swelling is worse upon waking.
How does Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment work?
This ointment works by drawing excess water out of the swollen cornea. It contains a higher concentration of salt, which helps to pull the extra fluid from the corneal tissue, reducing swelling and improving clarity of vision.
What are the common brands of Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment in India?
Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is typically available as generic preparations, often simply labelled as 'Sodium chloride 5% ointment' or 'Sodium chloride 6% ointment'.
How should I use Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment?
It is usually applied at bedtime. Your doctor might also advise you to use it in the mornings if needed. Always wash your hands before application, pull down your lower eyelid, and squeeze a thin strip of ointment into the pocket. Close your eye gently for a minute or two. Do not touch the tip of the tube to your eye.
Do I need a prescription for Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment?
Yes, Sodium Chloride 5% Ointment is a prescription eye medicine. You should only use it as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate or use an old prescription.
What precautions should I take while using this ointment?
You might experience temporary stinging or blurred vision after application, which is normal. It's best to use it at night because of the blurring effect. Always wash your hands before use and avoid contaminating the tube tip. If stinging is severe or persists, or if you notice any allergic reactions, contact your doctor immediately.
References
- What is the treatment for corneal edema? – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Corneal Conditions – National Eye Institute
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- 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.