Description:

Diclonova is a sterile ophthalmic solution containing diclofenac sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used to reduce pain, inflammation, redness, swelling, and light sensitivity (photophobia) in the eye, most commonly after cataract surgery or other ocular procedures. It may also be prescribed for temporary relief following corneal refractive surgery or other inflammatory eye conditions.

Prescription:

• Prescription required; consult an ophthalmologist or physician before use.

Therapeutic Category:

• Ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) / Topical ocular anti-inflammatory.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Diclofenac sodium 0.1% w/v (1 mg/mL). Other ingredients: Preservatives (e.g., benzalkonium chloride), stabilizers, and buffering agents (e.g., boric acid, sodium borate, or similar; exact excipients may vary slightly by batch).

Variant:

• Standard 0.1% ophthalmic solution (1 mg/mL); available in 5 mL dropper bottle (common size in Ghana pharmacies).

Consume Type:

• Topical (ophthalmic eye drops).

Directions/Usage:

Instill 1 drop into the affected eye(s) 4 times daily, starting 24 hours after cataract surgery and continuing for up to 2 weeks (or as directed by your doctor). For corneal refractive surgery: 1–2 drops within 1 hour before surgery, then 1–2 drops 15 minutes after, followed by 4 times daily for up to 3 days.

• Shake well before use.
• Wash hands; tilt head back, pull down lower eyelid, instill drop without touching eye or dropper tip.
• Close eye gently for 1–2 minutes; apply gentle pressure to inner corner to reduce drainage.
• Wait 5–10 minutes before using other eye drops.

Common Side Effects:

• Temporary stinging, burning, or irritation upon instillation; blurred vision; increased tearing; foreign body sensation; mild redness; or eye discomfort. Rare: Keratitis (corneal inflammation), corneal erosion/ulcer, delayed healing, elevated intraocular pressure, allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), or light sensitivity worsening.

Package Type:

• Plastic dropper bottle (5 mL) with screw cap; usually in a carton box.

Storage Advice:

• Store at room temperature (15–30°C), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Discard 4 weeks after opening or as per expiry date on label. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For ophthalmic use only—do not inject or swallow. Avoid if allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs (risk of cross-reactivity). Use caution in patients with asthma, bleeding disorders, or history of corneal problems (may delay healing). Not recommended with soft contact lenses (remove before use; wait 15 minutes to reinsert). Avoid in late pregnancy (risk to fetus). Inform doctor of other eye medications or conditions (e.g., dry eye, rheumatoid arthritis). Report severe pain, vision changes, or persistent irritation immediately. Prolonged use requires monitoring for corneal toxicity or increased eye pressure.

Product Substitutes:

• Voltaren Ophtha (original brand)
• Diclofenac Sodium Ophthalmic Solution 0.1% generics (e.g., from Bausch + Lomb, Altaire, or other importers)
• Safenac Eye Drops (similar diclofenac ophthalmic in Ghana)
• Other NSAID eye drops (e.g., ketorolac tromethamine 0.5% like Acular) if substituted by doctor. Consult an ophthalmologist for suitable alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

• Atlantic Pharma

Country of Origin:

• Ghana