Boric acid containing solutions: do not co-adminster with IDU, since it may not cause irritation.

Viral infections of the eye

Occassional irritation, pain, pruritus, inflammation or edema of the eyes, allergic reactions, photophobia, corneal clouding, stippling, punctuate defects in the corneal epithelium. Follicular conjuntivitis, puntual occlusion and conjuntival scarring may be observed with prolonged use.

History of hypersensitivity to IDU or any component of the formulation. Since herpes infects and destroys nerves, a sterile trophic ulcer may result. A sterile trophic ulcer may not heal with continued IDU therapy. Discontinuation of therapy is often necessary to eliminate epithelial toxicity to allow healing.

Special precautions: IDU may be sensitising, this is more common with dermal than ocular use. Regard this cytotoxic drug as potentially carcinogenic. IDU crosses the placental barrier and produces foetal malformations when administered topically to the eyes of pregnant rabbits. Administer with caution in pregnancy.

Lactation- not known whether IDU is excreted in breast milk. Do not nurse while undergoing treatment, the drug and the metabolites may be excreted in breast milk.

Viral infections of the eye

Indications: Herpes simplex keratistis, epithelial infections.

Dosage: For optimal results keep infected tissues saturated with IDU. 5 instillations daily every 4 hours.

1. May cause sensitivity to bright light, this may be minimised by wearing sunglasses.

2. Notify physician if improvement is not seen after 14 days. If condition worsens or if pain, decreased vision, itching, or swelling of the eyes occur.

3.Allergies- tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to idoxuridine or to iodine or iodine containing preparations. Also tell your doctor if youare allergic to any other substances, such as foods, presrvatives or dyes.

4.Pregnancy - before taking this medicine make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant

5.Breast feeding- mothers who are taking this medicine and who wish to breast feed should this with their doctor.

6 Children - no specific information comparing the use of this medicine in children with use in other age groups.

7. Elderly- no specific information comparing use of idoxuridine in the elderly with use in other age groups.

8. Other medicines - Eye product containing boric acid - boric acid may interfere with the idoxuridine preparartions causing a gritty substance to form or may interact with the preservative causing a toxic effect in the eye.

9. Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. however, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double doses.

10. Storage - Keep out of reach of children. Store away from heat or direct sunlight. Do not store the capsule in bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places.

11. Outdated medicines - Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of reach of children.

Pharmacology:

Idoxurine (IDU) blocks reproduction of herpes simplex virus by altering normal DNA synthesis

Pregnancy Safety for use in pregnancy has not been established.

Lactation: Not known whether Idoxuridine is excreted in breast milk. Use with caution.