Like all medicines, carmellose sodium eye drops can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them.
Common side effects of carmellose sodium eye drops
The most common side effects of carmellose sodium eye drops are burning, itching and stinging of the eyes. These side effects happen in more than 1 in 100 people. They're usually mild and only last for a few minutes after using the drops.
If these side effects continue, you may be sensitive to an ingredient in the eye drops. This could be a preservative, which is something in the eye drops that keeps them clean (sterile) and makes them last longer.
Speak to your doctor, pharmacist or optometrist. They may recommend using a brand that does not contain a preservative, or using single dose (or unit dose) drops or other eye drops for dry eyes.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects are rare and may affect less than 1 in 100 people.
Call 111 now and do not use any more carmellose sodium if your eyelid, or the area around your eye, becomes swollen. This could mean you've had a mild allergic reaction.
Serious allergic reaction
In very rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to carmellose sodium eye drops.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
- you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air)
- your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow
- your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
- you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
- someone faints and cannot be woken up
- a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)
You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.
These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Do not drive yourself to A&E.
The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects of carmellose sodium eye drops. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine's packet.
Reporting side effects
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.
Visit the Yellow Card website for more information about reporting side effects.