Dextran+riboflavin
About Dextran+riboflavin
Dextran+riboflavin is used to treat progressive keratoconus (corneal thinning) and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Progressive keratoconus is a condition where the clear part of the eye (cornea) becomes thinner and gradually bulges into a cone shape. Corneal ectasia is a condition in which the cornea becomes weak and thins out, often occurring after refractive surgery.
Dextran+riboflavin contains Dextran and Riboflavin. When activated by a special light, Dextran+riboflavin helps strengthen the collagen fibres in the cornea, making it more stable and less prone to bulging. This helps slow or stop the progression of keratoconus and ectasia.
Dextran+riboflavin is administered by the doctor during a specialised procedure. In some cases, you may experience side effects such as dry eyes, eye pain, blurred vision, and photophobia (sensitivity to light). Most of these side effects gradually resolve over time and do not require medical attention. However, consult the doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen.
Dextran+riboflavin is for ophthalmic use only. Do not self-medicate. Avoid rubbing your eyes for the first five days after the procedure. Wear sunglasses to help reduce light sensitivity. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to this medicine, or taking any other medication to rule out potential interactions.
Uses of Dextran+riboflavin
Treatment of corneal ectasia: Dextran+riboflavin helps manage corneal ectasia, a condition that can occur after certain refractive surgeries. By strengthening the cornea, Dextran+riboflavin improves long-term vision and reduces the need for more invasive treatments.
Medicinal Benefits
Dextran+riboflavin is an ophthalmic medication that is used to treat progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia that occurs after refractive surgery. It contains dextran and riboflavin, which are used during a procedure called corneal collagen cross-linking. When activated by a special light, Dextran+riboflavin helps strengthen the collagen fibres in the cornea, making it more stable and less prone to bulging. This helps slow or stop the progression of keratoconus and ectasia.
Directions for Use
- Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication.
- Dextran+riboflavin is administered by the doctor during the specialised procedure. The doctor will apply the medication to the eye, closely monitor the response, and adjust the treatment as needed to ensure optimal results.
- Do not self-administer.
Storage
Side Effects of Dextran+riboflavin
- Eye pain
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Drug Warnings
Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Dextran+riboflavin. Ulcerative keratitis may develop, so it is important to monitor the cornea for proper healing of any surface defects. Consult your doctor immediately if there is severe pain or a sudden change in vision. If the bandage contact lens comes out or moves out of place, do not try to put it back; seek medical advice immediately. Inform your doctor about all the prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking, especially eye medication/products. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The safety and effectiveness of Dextran+riboflavin in children below the age of 14 years have not been established.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is unknown whether Dextran+riboflavin interacts with alcohol. Please consult the doctor if you have any concerns.
Pregnancy
cautionConsult your doctor if you are pregnant. The doctor will prescribe this medication only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorIt is unknown whether Dextran+riboflavin passes into breast milk or affects a nursing baby. Please consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Driving
cautionDextran+riboflavin may cause blurred vision. Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision returns to normal.
Liver
consult your doctorLimited information is available. If you have any history of liver disease, inform your doctor.
Kidney
consult your doctorLimited information is available. If you have any history of kidney disease, inform your doctor.
Children
cautionThe safety and effectiveness of Dextran+riboflavin in children below the age of 14 years have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Avoid rubbing your eyes and protect them by wearing sunglasses.
- Drink plenty of water or fluids to prevent eye dryness and maintain eye moisture.
- Limit screening time to prevent eye strain and discomfort.
- Eat foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, to support overall eye health.
- Increase anti-inflammatory foods in your diet by incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
- Get enough sleep to support overall healing and eye health.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Progressive keratoconus: Progressive keratoconus is a condition where the clear part of the eye (cornea) becomes thinner and gradually bulges into a cone shape. This change distorts vision, causing increased blurriness and light sensitivity. If left untreated, it typically worsens over time.
Corneal thinning: Corneal thinning, also known as ectasia, is a condition in which the cornea becomes weak and thins out, often occurring after refractive surgery. This causes the cornea to bulge and change shape, leading to distorted or blurry vision.
FAQs
Dextran+riboflavin is used to treat progressive keratoconus, where the cornea becomes thin and changes shape, causing vision distortion. Additionally, it helps manage corneal ectasia, a condition that can occur after certain refractive surgeries. By strengthening the cornea, Dextran+riboflavin improves corneal stability and prevents further thinning or bulging of the cornea. This treatment helps slow or stop the progression of these conditions, improving long-term vision and reducing the need for more invasive treatments.
When activated by a special light, Dextran+riboflavin helps strengthen the collagen fibres in the cornea, making it more stable and less prone to bulging. This helps slow or stop the progression of keratoconus and ectasia.
If the bandage contact lens placed on your eye during treatment falls out or becomes dislodged, consult your doctor immediately. Do not try to replace it yourself, as improper handling can lead to complications or further discomfort.
It is important to consult your doctor before using other medications after treatment with Dextran+riboflavin. Using multiple eye medications at the same time may potentially lead to interactions, reduce effectiveness, or cause unwanted side effects. Depending on your condition and the treatment you've received, your doctor will provide guidance on whether it is safe to use other medications in combination with this treatment. Always follow the doctor’s instructions for the best results.
The side effects of Dextran+riboflavin include dry eyes, eye pain, blurred vision, and photophobia (sensitivity to light). Most of the side effects of Dextran+riboflavin do not require medical attention and usually resolve on their own over time. However, please consult your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worsen.
Yes, Dextran+riboflavin may cause light sensitivity and foreign body sensation. Wearing sunglasses can be helpful in certain cases. However, consult the doctor if you have any concerns.
