Usage
Phenyl Mercuric Nitrate + Sodium Chloride is primarily used for the management of eye injuries, specifically corneal edema. It’s classified as an ophthalmic solution. Sodium Chloride acts as an osmotic agent, drawing out excess fluid from the cornea. Phenylmercuric Nitrate acts as an antiseptic and preservative.
Alternate Names
- Phenylmercuric nitrate + Sodium chloride ophthalmic solution
- Hypersol
- Hysol
- Hyperton
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: Sodium Chloride creates an osmotic gradient, drawing water out of the swollen cornea to reduce edema and promote healing. Phenylmercuric Nitrate disrupts the cell membranes of microorganisms, thus acting as an antiseptic and preservative.
Pharmacokinetics: Absorption is minimal with topical ophthalmic application. Metabolism and elimination pathways for topical application are not well-defined.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults:
Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4-6 hours. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 8 drops per eye.
Children:
For children above 2 years, dosage should be determined by a physician, generally following adult recommendations. Use in children under 2 is not recommended unless specifically directed by a doctor.
Special Cases:
- Elderly Patients: Dosage adjustments are not usually required but consider comorbidities and overall health.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: No specific adjustments are typically needed, but caution and monitoring are advised.
- Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: No specific adjustments are typically needed, but caution and monitoring are advised.
- Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Evaluate on a case-by-case basis.
Clinical Use Cases
Dosage in specific clinical situations like Intubation, Surgical Procedures, Mechanical Ventilation, ICU Use, and Emergency Situations needs to be determined based on the individual patient’s needs and clinical context and prescribed by the physician.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Temporary burning or stinging sensation
- Mild eye irritation or redness
- Blurred vision (transient)
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye discomfort
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Mercurialentis (pigmentation of the lens)
- Band keratopathy (calcium deposits in the cornea)
- Allergic reactions (itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Long-Term Effects
Long-term use can potentially lead to mercurialentis or band keratopathy.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Severe allergic reactions require immediate medical intervention.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation
- Viral or fungal eye infections
- Acute anterior uveitis or other inflammatory eye conditions
- Severe dry eye
Drug Interactions
Significant drug interactions are uncommon. Potential interactions with other ophthalmic medications should be considered.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not firmly established. Consult a physician before use.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Osmotic action (Sodium Chloride), antiseptic and preservative (Phenylmercuric Nitrate)
- Side Effects: Burning/stinging, irritation, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light. Rarely: mercurialentis, band keratopathy, allergic reactions.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, viral/fungal eye infections, acute anterior uveitis, severe dry eye.
- Drug Interactions: Possible with other ophthalmic medications.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a physician. Safety not established.
- Dosage: 1-2 drops in affected eye(s) every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 8 drops/eye/day.
- Monitoring Parameters: Eye irritation, vision changes
Popular Combinations
Phenylmercuric nitrate is often used as a preservative in various ophthalmic solutions. Specific combinations vary.
Precautions
- Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface.
- Discontinue use and consult a physician if irritation persists or worsens.
- Pre-screening for allergies is essential.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Phenyl Mercuric Nitrate + Sodium Chloride?
A: 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 8 drops per eye per day. Dosage may be adjusted by a physician for children over 2 years of age.
Q2: Can this medication be used for viral or fungal eye infections?
A: No, it is contraindicated in these conditions.
Q3: What are the common side effects?
A: Burning or stinging, irritation, redness, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
Q4: Are there any serious side effects?
A: Rarely, mercurialentis, band keratopathy, and allergic reactions can occur.
A: It’s best to avoid contact lens wear during treatment. Consult your doctor.
Q6: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: Administer the missed dose as soon as remembered, but do not double the dose. Continue the regular dosing schedule.
Q7: Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: Safety is not established. Consult your doctor.
Q8: How should I store the eye drops?
A: Store in a tightly closed container, protected from light, at room temperature.
Q9: Can this be used in children?
A: It should not be used for children under 2 unless specifically directed by a doctor. For children over 2, the physician should determine the appropriate dose.
