intavisc injection - Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (2% w/v) medicine

Appavisc Injection: Comprehensive Medicine Profile

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🏭 Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 26, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for use in ophthalmic surgery.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 26, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe eye pain that does not improve with prescribed pain relief.
  • Sudden loss of vision or a significant decrease in vision.
  • Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye.
  • Flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in the vision.
  • Nausea or vomiting accompanied by eye pain.
  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is intavisc injection used for?

This medicine is a sterile ophthalmic viscosurgical device containing 2% w/v hydroxypropylmethylcellulose. It is used during eye surgery to maintain the anterior chamber, protect delicate tissues, and facilitate surgical maneuvers. It is administered only by an ophthalmic surgeon.

  • Generic Name: Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (2% w/v)
  • Manufacturer: Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 intavisc injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक विशेष नेत्र शल्य चिकित्सा सहायक है जिसका उपयोग आंखों की सर्जरी के दौरान किया जाता है। इसमें हाइड्रॉक्सीप्रोपाइलमिथाइलसेलुलोज़ (2% w/v) होता है। यह आंख के अंदर की जगह को बनाए रखने, नाजुक ऊतकों की रक्षा करने और सर्जन को सर्जरी करने में मदद करता है। यह केवल नेत्र सर्जन द्वारा ही दिया जाता है, मरीज इसे खुद नहीं लगा सकते।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में आंखों में दबाव बढ़ना, हल्की सूजन और लालिमा शामिल हो सकते हैं, जो आमतौर पर कुछ दिनों में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें आंखों में गंभीर संक्रमण, रेटिना डिटैचमेंट या एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है। यदि सर्जरी के बाद तेज दर्द, दृष्टि में कमी या असामान्य लालिमा हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल अस्पताल में योग्य नेत्र सर्जन द्वारा ही दी जाती है। मरीज को सर्जरी से पहले अपनी सभी एलर्जी और दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को बताना चाहिए। सर्जरी के बाद डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार आई ड्रॉप्स का उपयोग करें और फॉलो-अप अपॉइंटमेंट पर जरूर जाएं। आंखों को रगड़ें नहीं और पानी से बचाएं। यदि कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 intavisc injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Cataract surgery","description":"Used to maintain the anterior chamber and protect the corneal endothelium during phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Corneal transplantation","description":"Helps maintain the anterior chamber and protect delicate tissues during penetrating keratoplasty.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Glaucoma surgery","description":"Used as a viscoelastic agent to maintain space and control intraocular pressure during trabeculectomy and other glaucoma procedures.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Intraocular foreign body removal","description":"Assists in maintaining a clear surgical field and protecting intraocular structures during removal of foreign bodies.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Vitreoretinal surgery","description":"Sometimes used off-label as a tamponade agent or to assist in membrane peeling, though its role is not fully established.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Not applicable. This medicine is a surgical aid, not a treatment for a specific disease.

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (2% w/v)
Brand Nameintavisc injection
ManufacturerIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL
Action ClassTear substitues
Route of AdministrationParenteral (intraocular injection)
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Keep in the original packaging until use.
Shelf LifeRefer to the product label for the expiration date. Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Ensure the product is at room temperature before use to optimize viscosity.
2
Inject slowly and steadily to avoid sudden changes in intraocular pressure.
3
Remove as much of the viscoelastic material as possible at the end of surgery to prevent postoperative pressure spikes.
4
Monitor intraocular pressure closely in the first 24 hours after surgery.
5
Use a fresh, sterile syringe and needle for each administration.
6
Avoid using if the solution appears cloudy or contains particles.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

❌
Eye pain after surgery
This medicine is used during surgery, not to treat postoperative pain.
Not Primary
❌
Blurred vision
This medicine is not a treatment for blurred vision; it is a surgical aid.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNot applicable. This medicine is administered directly into the eye during surgery and is not intended for systemic absorption.
DistributionNot applicable. This medicine acts locally within the eye and does not distribute systemically to a significant extent.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismNot applicable. Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose is not metabolized in the eye; it is cleared physically.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionThe hydroxypropylmethylcellulose polymer is cleared from the eye primarily through the trabecular meshwork and aqueous outflow pathways. Small amounts may be removed by the surgeon during the procedure.
BioavailabilityNot applicable. This medicine is administered locally and does not require systemic absorption for its effect.
Onset of ActionImmediate upon injection into the eye.
Peak Plasma TimeNot applicable. This medicine does not enter the systemic circulation.
Duration of ActionThe effect lasts for the duration of the surgical procedure, typically ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the amount used and the surgical technique.

How It Works

This medicine works by physically occupying space and coating intraocular tissues. Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose is a high molecular weight polymer that forms a viscous, transparent solution. When injected into the eye, it creates a cohesive gel that maintains the anterior chamber depth, separates tissues, and provides a protective layer over the corneal endothelium. Its viscoelastic properties allow it to absorb mechanical energy during surgical manipulation, reducing trauma to delicate structures. The polymer is not metabolized and is eventually cleared from the eye through the trabecular meshwork and other outflow pathways.

Mechanism Steps

1
Injection and space maintenance: The surgeon injects this medicine into the anterior chamber or other intraocular spaces, where it expands and maintains the space due to its viscous nature.
2
Tissue coating and protection: The hydroxypropylmethylcellulose polymer coats the corneal endothelium and other delicate tissues, creating a protective barrier against mechanical trauma.
3
Facilitation of surgical maneuvers: The viscoelastic properties allow the surgeon to manipulate tissues, insert instruments, and implant lenses with greater control and safety.
4
Gradual clearance: After surgery, the viscoelastic material is either removed by the surgeon or gradually cleared from the eye through normal aqueous outflow pathways.

💡 How to Take intavisc injection

Strength: 2% w/v sterile ophthalmic injection

1This medicine is administered by a qualified ophthalmic surgeon in a sterile surgical environment.
2The patient does not self-administer this medicine.
3The surgeon will inject the appropriate amount into the eye during the procedure.
4Any excess material may be removed by the surgeon before completing the surgery.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine is determined by the ophthalmic surgeon based on the specific surgical procedure and the amount needed to maintain the anterior chamber. It is injected as needed during surgery. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric ophthalmologist.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustments are required for elderly patients. The dose is determined by the surgeon based on the surgical needs.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required as this medicine is not systemically absorbed.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required as this medicine is not systemically absorbed.
Maximum Daily DoseNot applicable. This medicine is used as a single administration during surgery.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

Not applicable
No food restrictions
This medicine is administered during surgery and does not interact with food.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Not applicable
→ This medicine is given as a single dose during surgery.
💡 No missed dose instructions are required.

⚠️ Side Effects of intavisc injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Transient increase in intraocular pressure (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves within 24-48 hours. Your surgeon will monitor your eye pressure after surgery.
Mild corneal edema (Common (5-10%))
Typically clears on its own. Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
Anterior chamber inflammation (Common (5-10%))
Follow your surgeon's instructions for anti-inflammatory eye drops.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe intraocular pressure elevation (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe eye pain, headache, nausea, or vision loss after surgery.
Endophthalmitis (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice increasing eye pain, redness, swelling, or discharge.
Retinal detachment (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek urgent care if you see flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in your vision.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Allergic reaction to hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Corneal endothelial damage
Report any persistent vision changes to your surgeon.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to hydroxypropylmethylcellulose or any component of the formulation.","Active intraocular infection or inflammation.","Any condition where the use of viscoelastic agents is not advisable, as determined by the surgeon."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For single use only. Discard any unused portion.","Do not use if the solution is cloudy or contains particles.","Use with caution in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cellulose derivatives.","The product should be administered only by a qualified ophthalmic surgeon.","Postoperative monitoring for intraocular pressure is recommended.","The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been fully established."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Not established from the available information. It is unknown whether hydroxypropylmethylcellulose is excreted in breast milk. Since it is administered locally during surgery, systemic exposure is minimal. Consult your surgeon if you are breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose is unlikely as this medicine is administered by a surgeon in a controlled dose. If excessive amounts are used, the surgeon will remove the excess during the procedure. Any remaining material is gradually cleared. No specific antidote is required.

⏰ Missed Dose

Not applicable. This medicine is administered as a single dose during surgery by a healthcare professional.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine is for professional use only and must be administered by a qualified ophthalmic surgeon in a sterile surgical setting. Patients should inform their surgeon of any allergies, especially to cellulose derivatives, before the procedure. After surgery, patients should follow all postoperative instructions carefully, including using any prescribed eye drops and attending follow-up appointments. Patients should not rub their eyes or touch the surgical area. If they experience severe pain, vision loss, or unusual redness after surgery, they should contact their surgeon immediately. This medicine should not be used if the packaging is damaged or if the solution appears cloudy or contains particles. It is for single use only; any unused portion should be discarded. The product should be stored as directed on the label, typically at room temperature, and protected from light. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss the risks and benefits with their surgeon before undergoing surgery that involves this product. The safety and effectiveness of this medicine in children have not been fully established, but it may be used in pediatric ophthalmic surgery at the surgeon's discretion.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more prone to postoperative increases in intraocular pressure. Close monitoring is recommended. The dose is not adjusted based on age, but the surgeon will consider overall health status.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your surgeon before surgery. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been fully established. The surgeon will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, follow all postoperative instructions carefully. Use prescribed eye drops, avoid rubbing your eyes, and attend follow-up appointments. Report any unusual symptoms such as severe pain, vision loss, or increased redness immediately.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you have recently had eye surgery. There is no direct interaction, but your dentist may need to know about your overall health status. Avoid dental procedures that could increase pressure in the eye until your surgeon approves.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Follow your surgeon's instructions for postoperative care, including using prescribed eye drops.
🥗
Avoid rubbing your eyes or getting water in them for the first week after surgery.
😴
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright light and glare.
💧
Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least a week after surgery.
🧘
Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E to support eye health.
🌞
Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise, bending, or heavy lifting for at least one week after eye surgery. Your surgeon will advise you on when you can resume normal activities. Gentle walking is usually allowed, but avoid activities that increase intraocular pressure.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in vitamin A such as carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
Eat foods high in vitamin C like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers.
Consume foods with vitamin E such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol immediately after surgery.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

After eye surgery with this medicine, you may need to take a few days off work to recover. Your vision may be blurry initially, and you should not drive until your surgeon says it is safe. Avoid operating heavy machinery or performing tasks that require clear vision until your eye has healed. Most people can return to desk work within a few days, but physical jobs may require longer recovery.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

This medicine is given as a single dose during surgery, so there is no ongoing use to stop. If you experience any severe side effects after surgery, contact your surgeon immediately. Do not stop any prescribed postoperative medications without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term effects of this medicine are generally minimal because it is cleared from the eye after surgery. However, in rare cases, residual material may cause prolonged inflammation or increased intraocular pressure. Long-term monitoring of intraocular pressure and corneal health is recommended after any eye surgery. There is no evidence of systemic long-term effects.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Sodium hyaluronate viscoelastic

Another type of ophthalmic viscosurgical device that can be used for similar purposes.

Evidence: Well-established
Chondroitin sulfate viscoelastic

A combination viscoelastic agent used in some eye surgeries.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon about any recent vaccinations. There is no need to delay vaccination due to this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze

✅ DO

Keep in the original packaging until use

❌ DON'T

Do not use if the packaging is damaged

✅ DO

Protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not store in direct sunlight

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional during surgery, so travel advice is not applicable for patients. If you are traveling after eye surgery, carry a copy of your surgical report and prescription. Protect your eye from injury and follow your surgeon&#039;s instructions regarding activity restrictions. Avoid air travel if advised by your surgeon, especially if you have had certain types of eye surgery. Keep all postoperative eye drops in your carry-on luggage and bring enough for your trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 65-year-old man undergoing cataract surgery
During his cataract surgery, the surgeon used this medicine to maintain the anterior chamber and protect the corneal endothelium. The surgery went smoothly, and his intraocular pressure was slightly elevated on the first day but returned to normal within 48 hours with monitoring. He was advised to use anti-inflammatory eye drops and attend follow-up visits.
💡 Lesson: This medicine helps make cataract surgery safer, but postoperative monitoring for intraocular pressure is important.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with a history of glaucoma undergoing combined surgery
She underwent combined cataract and glaucoma surgery where this medicine was used to maintain space and control pressure. Her surgeon carefully removed the viscoelastic material at the end of the procedure. Her recovery was uneventful, and her intraocular pressure remained well-controlled.
💡 Lesson: Proper removal of the viscoelastic agent can help prevent postoperative pressure spikes, especially in patients with glaucoma.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine works immediately upon injection during surgery to maintain the eye's internal space and protect tissues.

Q: Will I feel any pain during the injection?

A: The injection is given during surgery, so you will not feel it. Your eye will be numbed with anesthesia.

Q: Can I use this medicine at home?

A: No, this medicine is for professional use only and must be administered by an ophthalmic surgeon.

Q: What are the side effects I should watch for?

A: Watch for severe eye pain, vision loss, increasing redness, or discharge. Contact your surgeon immediately if these occur.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Is this medicine safe for use in children?
  • Can this medicine cause long-term eye problems?
  • What should I do if I experience side effects after surgery?
  • How long does it take to recover after surgery with this medicine?
  • Are there any restrictions on driving after surgery with this medicine?

🔄 Substitutes for intavisc injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is an eye drop that patients can use at home.
    Fact: This medicine is an injectable surgical aid that must be administered by an ophthalmic surgeon during a procedure.
  • Myth: This medicine treats eye infections.
    Fact: This medicine does not treat infections; it is used to maintain space and protect tissues during eye surgery.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose 2% w/v ophthalmic injection

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"feature":"Active ingredient","appavisc_injection":"Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose 2% w/v","sodium_hyaluronate":"Sodium hyaluronate"},{"feature":"Class","appavisc_injection":"Ophthalmic viscosurgical device","sodium_hyaluronate":"Ophthalmic viscosurgical device"},{"feature":"Primary use","appavisc_injection":"Maintain anterior chamber during surgery","sodium_hyaluronate":"Maintain anterior chamber during surgery"}]

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