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Dextran+riboflavin

About Dextran+riboflavin

Dextran+riboflavin is a specialized ophthalmic solution used during professional corneal collagen cross-linking procedures to treat progressive thinning of the cornea, a condition known as keratoconus, as well as corneal ectasia. This clinical treatment is designed to strengthen the physical structure of your eye and prevent your vision from worsening over time. Unlike standard daily eye drops, this solution is only applied during a specific, one-time or scheduled medical procedure performed in an eye clinic.

Because Dextran+riboflavin is administered strictly by an eye care specialist in a controlled clinical setting, you do not need to follow a daily dosing schedule or apply it yourself at home. There are no dietary restrictions regarding food intake before or after receiving this solution. To support your recovery and achieve the best results after your procedure, it is highly recommended to rest your eyes, avoid bright environments, and wear protective eyewear as directed by your doctor.

Following the procedure, you may experience some common, temporary side effects such as eye redness, light sensitivity, or a mild gritty feeling in the treated eye. These symptoms are a normal part of the healing process and typically resolve within a few days. However, if you experience sudden, severe eye pain, a noticeable drop in your vision, or signs of an eye infection, you must contact your doctor immediately.

Do not receive this treatment if you have an active eye infection, severe scarring of the cornea, or a known allergy to any of the ingredients in Dextran+riboflavin. Before undergoing the procedure, tell your doctor if you have a history of dry eye syndrome, slow corneal healing, or any other pre-existing eye conditions that could affect how your eye recovers.

It is important to inform your specialist about all medications you use, including prescription eye drops, over-the-counter ointments, and oral medicines. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, you must consult your healthcare provider to discuss the safety and timing of this procedure, as specialized medical guidelines may apply to your situation.

Uses of Dextran+riboflavin

Treatment of keratoconus: Dextran+riboflavin treats progressive keratoconus, a condition in which the cornea becomes thin and changes shape, causing vision distortion. It helps slow down the progression of keratoconus and can prevent the need for a corneal transplant.
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

  • Preserves long-term vision: By strengthening the structural integrity of your cornea, this solution helps prevent further vision loss and reduces the risk of needing a corneal transplant in the future.
  • Strengthens corneal tissue: When activated by a specialized light source during your clinical procedure, the active components help create physical bonds between collagen fibers, stiffening the weakened corneal layers.
  • Improves contact lens fit: Stabilizing the shape of the cornea prevents further bulging, making it easier and more comfortable for you to wear corrective contact lenses over time.

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

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Side Effects of Dextran+riboflavin

Common Side Effects (Usually mild):

  • Temporary eye redness, burning, or watering
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • A feeling like there is sand or a foreign object in your eye
  • Mild swelling of the eyelid and temporary blurry vision
     

Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away):

  • Severe, sharp, or worsening eye pain that does not improve with your prescribed pain relievers
  • Signs of a serious eye infection, such as yellow or green discharge, crusting of the eyelids, or extreme redness
  • A sudden, severe decrease in your vision that was not present immediately after the procedure
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing

Drug Warnings

  • Ensure your eye specialist verifies that the Dextran+riboflavin solution vial is clear and completely free of any floating particles before starting the procedure.
  • Do not attempt to purchase, share, or apply this medication to your eyes at home, as it is strictly designed for professional, in-clinic use.
  • Keep all your scheduled follow-up appointments so your eye doctor can monitor how well your cornea is healing and check for any signs of infection.
  • Do not wear your normal contact lenses after the procedure until your eye doctor explicitly tells you it is safe to resume wearing them.
  • Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing tasks that require clear vision until your doctor confirms your eyes have healed sufficiently and your sight has stabilized.

Drug Interactions

  • Topical ophthalmic medications: Tell your doctor about any other eye drops you use. Certain medicated drops, such as those used for glaucoma or severe dry eyes, may need to be temporarily stopped before your procedure to avoid interfering with the absorption of Dextran+riboflavin.

Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:

Safety Advice

  • Safety Warning

    Alcohol

    consult your doctor

    It is unknown whether Dextran+riboflavin interacts with alcohol. Please consult the doctor if you have any concerns.

  • Safety Warning

    Pregnancy

    caution

    Consult your doctor if you are pregnant. The doctor will prescribe this medication only if the benefits outweigh the risks.

  • Safety Warning

    Breast Feeding

    consult your doctor

    It is unknown whether Dextran+riboflavin passes into breast milk or affects a nursing baby. Please consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

  • Safety Warning

    Driving

    caution

    Dextran+riboflavin may cause blurred vision. Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision returns to normal.

  • Safety Warning

    Liver

    consult your doctor

    Limited information is available. If you have any history of liver disease, inform your doctor.

  • Safety Warning

    Kidney

    consult your doctor

    Limited information is available. If you have any history of kidney disease, inform your doctor.

  • Safety Warning

    Children

    caution

    The safety and effectiveness of Dextran+riboflavin in children below the age of 14 years have not been established.

Habit Forming

No

Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • Rest your eyes in a dark or dimly lit room for the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure to ease light sensitivity and assist recovery.
  • Wear high-quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection both indoors and outdoors to shield your healing cornea from bright light.
  • Do not rub your eyes under any circumstances, as this can dislodge the healing outer cells of your cornea or the protective bandage contact lens.
  • Avoid getting water, soap, or shampoo directly in your eyes when showering or washing your face for at least one week, or as instructed by your doctor.
  • Stay away from dusty, smoky, or dirty environments, and do not use eye makeup or swim for at least two weeks to reduce your risk of eye infection.

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.

No, Dextran+riboflavin is a professional-grade clinical solution that must only be applied by a trained eye care specialist during a specialized procedure. Do not attempt to use it yourself. Talk to your doctor for more information.

The entire corneal cross-linking procedure, which includes applying Dextran+riboflavin drops and exposure to specialized UV light, typically takes about 30 to 90 minutes. Talk to your doctor to understand what to expect during your appointment.

Your doctor will use numbing eye drops before starting the procedure, so you should not feel pain while Dextran+riboflavin is being applied. You may feel some mild pressure or discomfort during the process, and some temporary soreness is normal during recovery. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about pain.

While serious long-term complications are rare, some patients may experience temporary cloudiness in their vision (corneal haze) or dry eyes as the cornea heals over several months. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.

You must stop wearing contact lenses before the procedure and avoid wearing them afterward until your cornea has completely healed. Your eye specialist will tell you exactly when it is safe to start wearing your lenses again. Talk to your doctor before inserting any lenses.

Yes, most patients need to rest for about 3 to 7 days after the procedure due to temporary blurry vision, eye discomfort, and sensitivity to light. Talk to your doctor about how much recovery time you should plan for based on your daily activities.

There is limited clinical safety data regarding the use of Dextran+riboflavin during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Because it is used in combination with UV light, you should discuss the timing of your procedure with your specialist. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.

Dextran+riboflavin is designed to strengthen your cornea and halt or slow the progression of keratoconus, but it is not a cure and will not reverse existing changes in your eye shape. Talk to your doctor about realistic expectations for your post-procedure vision.

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