Vetdrugs 2.0Carboxymethylcellulose sodium, also called carmellose sodium, is a hydrophilic polymer used in artificial tears. Veterinary applications focus on lubrication and protection of the ocular surface in tear-film deficiency or exposure. It provides a physical tear substitute and is commonly used alongside treatment directed at the cause of dry-eye disease.
Group
Ocular lubricant; cellulose polymer
Mechanism of Action
Carboxymethylcellulose binds water and increases the viscosity and residence time of fluid on the ocular surface. The hydrated polymer film reduces friction between the eyelids and cornea and limits surface drying. Improved lubrication supports epithelial protection and comfort. Its action is physical replacement of tear-film function rather than stimulation of lacrimal secretion.
Dose Rates
Dogs
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ocular surface lubrication | Reference only | TOPICAL | Instil ophthalmic lubricant as needed and adjust to ocular comfort and corneal findings. No veterinary universal mg dose or fixed drop-to-mL conversion is established here. |
Cats
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ocular surface lubrication | Reference only | TOPICAL | Instil ophthalmic lubricant as needed and adjust to ocular comfort and corneal findings. No veterinary universal mg dose or fixed drop-to-mL conversion is established here. |
Indications
- Adjunctive ocular lubrication in keratoconjunctivitis sicca or other tear-film deficiency in veterinary patients.
- Protection of the ocular surface during anesthesia or selected exposure-associated drying.
- Supportive lubrication in selected corneal epithelial disease or postoperative ocular-surface irritation.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ingredients; persistent pain or discharge requires examination rather than lubricant-only treatment.
Interactions
- Separate different eye medications to limit dilution; ointments are generally applied after solutions.
Adverse effects
- Transient blur, stinging or preservative-related epithelial irritation.
Toxicity
Systemic toxicity from ordinary ocular use is unlikely; assess contamination or hypersensitivity if irritation persists.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teardrops ophthalmic solution 0.5% Carboxymethylcellulose sodium 5 mg/mL; ophthalmic lubricant. | Other | 5 mg / mL | TOPICAL |
Monitoring and Administration
Use an ophthalmic sterile preparation, not industrial CMC powder. Do not touch the tip to the eye.
Frequency is individualised to ocular-surface findings and tear deficiency. Preservative-free products may be preferable with frequent use or damaged epithelium.
Lubrication complements treatment of the cause of keratoconjunctivitis sicca; it does not restore lacrimal function by itself.