Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops 10 ml

What is Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops?

Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops are a medication used for the treatment of cataracts. They belong to a category of ophthalmological preparations designed to maintain eye health and improve visual clarity.

How Do Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops Work?

Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops contain a combination of active ingredients that work together to protect the eye lens and potentially slow the progression of cataracts. Here's a detailed look at how each component contributes to the overall effectiveness of the medication:

Active Ingredients and Their Functions

1. Cytochrome C (0.675 mg per ml):

   • Role in the Eye: Cytochrome C is a naturally occurring protein found in the mitochondria of cells. In the eye, it plays a crucial role in the electron transport chain, which is part of the process that cells use to produce energy.
   • Antioxidant Properties: As an antioxidant, cytochrome C helps to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative damage to the eye's lens. This oxidative damage is one of the contributing factors to the development of cataracts. By neutralizing free radicals, cytochrome C helps protect the lens from this damage.

2. Adenosine (2 mg per ml):

   • Role in the Eye: Adenosine is a nucleoside that plays a significant role in various biochemical processes, including energy transfer (as part of ATP) and signal transduction (through cyclic AMP).
   • Enhancing Blood Flow: In the context of eye health, adenosine promotes vasodilation, which improves blood flow to the eye. This increased blood flow ensures that the lens and other ocular tissues receive an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen, which are essential for maintaining eye health and function.
   • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Adenosine also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the eye, potentially alleviating some symptoms associated with cataracts.

3. Nicotinamide (20 mg per ml):

   • Role in the Eye: Nicotinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is essential for cellular metabolism and energy production.
   • Cellular Protection: Nicotinamide helps protect the cells in the lens by supporting the repair of damaged DNA and maintaining cellular health. This is particularly important in the context of cataracts, where the accumulation of damaged proteins and other cellular components can cloud the lens.
   • Antioxidant Properties: Like cytochrome C, nicotinamide also has antioxidant properties. It helps to reduce oxidative stress in the lens, further protecting against the damage that can lead to cataract formation.

How These Ingredients Work Together

When combined, the ingredients in Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops provide a multi-faceted approach to eye health:

• Antioxidant Defense: Cytochrome C and nicotinamide work together to neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting the lens from oxidative damage.
• Improved Nutrient Delivery: Adenosine enhances blood flow to the eye, ensuring that the lens and other ocular tissues receive the nutrients and oxygen they need to function properly and repair damage.
• Cellular Maintenance: Nicotinamide supports cellular health and repair, helping to maintain the clarity and function of the lens.

By addressing these key aspects of eye health, Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops can help protect the lens from the damage that leads to cataracts, potentially slowing the progression of the condition and preserving vision.

Who Can Use Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops?

Oftan® Catachrom is recommended for adults. It is not suitable for children under 18 years of age. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using this medication unless absolutely necessary, as its effects have not been studied in these populations.

What Precautions Should Be Taken Before Using Oftan® Catachrom?

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to any active or inactive ingredients
• Not suitable for children under 18 years

Specific Precautions

• These eye drops are for topical use only; they should not be injected or ingested.
• Contains benzalkonium chloride, which can be absorbed by soft contact lenses and cause discoloration. Contact lenses should be removed before application and can be reinserted after 15 minutes.
• Benzalkonium chloride can also cause eye irritation, especially in individuals with dry eye syndrome or corneal conditions. Consult a doctor if you experience unusual sensations, burning, or pain.
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How Should Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops Be Used?

Dosage Instructions

• Instill 1-2 drops into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) three times a day.

Application Method

• To use the drops, turn the bottle cap while pressing down to open it.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye or hands, to prevent contamination.

Additional Instructions

• If using other eye medications, wait 5-15 minutes before applying the next medication.

Are There Any Potential Side Effects?

Common Side Effects

• Temporary eye pain and irritation

Rare Side Effects

• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Contact dermatitis

Very Rare Side Effects

• Nausea, dizziness, hypotension, shortness of breath
• Flushing, feeling hot, fainting, pulsing sensation in the temples

Unknown Frequency

• Temporary eye irritation due to benzalkonium chloride

In rare cases, corneal calcification has been reported in patients with severe corneal damage due to the phosphate buffer system in the eye drops.

What Should Be Done in Case of Overdose?

Oftan® Catachrom is safe when used as directed for ophthalmic purposes. If ingested or used improperly, treatment is symptomatic. Seek medical advice if an overdose is suspected.

How to Store Oftan® Catachrom Eye Drops?

• Store at temperatures between 2°C and 8°C (35.6°F to 46.4°F).
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use beyond the expiration date.
• Once opened, use within 28 days.