Ilevro®
(Nepafenac Ophthalmic Suspension)
What is Ilevro?
Ilevro is an eye drop medication used to treat pain and inflammation caused by cataract surgery. It belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs help reduce inflammation and relieve pain by blocking certain substances in the body.
How to Use Ilevro
Use one drop of Ilevro in the affected eye(s) once daily, starting one day before cataract surgery, on the day of surgery, and for the next two weeks after surgery.
If you are using more than one type of eye drop, wait at least five minutes between applying each medicine.
Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions on how long to use Ilevro to ensure proper healing
Common Side Effects
Like most medications, Ilevro may cause some side effects. The most common ones include:
Blurred vision
Eye pain or discomfort
Sticky feeling in the eye
Increased sensitivity to light
These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. If you experience any severe side effects, such as vision changes or persistent eye pain, contact your doctor.
Important Information
Increased Bleeding Risk: Ilevro, like other NSAIDs, may increase your risk of bleeding. If you have a history of bleeding disorders or are on blood thinners, inform your doctor before using this medication.
Slow Healing: NSAIDs like Ilevro can slow down healing, especially if used with other medications like corticosteroids. Talk to your doctor if you notice a delay in recovery.
Corneal Issues: Prolonged use may lead to corneal issues, such as thinning or ulcers. Stop using Ilevro and contact your doctor if you experience symptoms like severe eye pain, redness, or vision changes.
Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Ilevro and wait 15 minutes after applying the drops before putting them back in.
How Ilevro Works
Ilevro helps reduce pain and inflammation after cataract surgery by blocking the production of substances that cause swelling and discomfort. It converts into an active form in the eye, which targets and blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals. This process helps decrease swelling and pain, allowing your eye to heal more comfortably.
For more information visit the Ilevro website.
Another common medication prescribed post-cataract surgery is Prolensa. To learn more, click here.
