nepaonce 3% eye drop - Nepafenac (3% w/v) medicine

Nepaonce 3% Eye Drop: Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Entod Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 31, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High for postoperative inflammation and pain; moderate for macular edema prevention.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 31, 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 medication
  • Sudden vision loss or significant blurring
  • Increased redness or swelling in the eye
  • Discharge or pus from the eye
  • Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or swelling of face or throat
  • Blood in the eye or around the eye
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is nepaonce 3% eye drop used for?

This medicine is an ophthalmic NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation after cataract surgery. It works by blocking prostaglandins in the eye. It is typically used three times daily for up to 2 weeks postoperatively.

  • Generic Name: Nepafenac (3% w/v)
  • Manufacturer: Entod Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 nepaonce 3% eye drop के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा नेपाफेनैक 3% आई ड्रॉप के रूप में एक ऑफ्थैल्मिक NSAID है, जिसका उपयोग मोतियाबिंद सर्जरी के बाद दर्द और सूजन को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह आंख में प्रोस्टाग्लैंडिन के उत्पादन को रोककर काम करती है, जिससे सूजन और दर्द कम होता है। यह मधुमेह रोगियों में सर्जरी के बाद मैकुलर एडिमा के जोखिम को कम करने में भी मदद कर सकती है। इसका उपयोग डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में आंख में जलन, धुंधली दृष्टि, और असुविधा शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में कॉर्नियल अल्सर, केराटाइटिस, और आंख में रक्तस्राव हो सकता है। यदि आपको तेज दर्द, लालिमा, या दृष्टि में बदलाव महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग करने से पहले और बाद में अपने हाथ धोएं। ड्रॉपर की नोक को आंख या किसी सतह को न छुएं। कॉन्टैक्ट लेंस पहनते समय इस दवा का उपयोग न करें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें। धुंधली दृष्टि होने पर वाहन न चलाएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 nepaonce 3% eye drop Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Postoperative pain and inflammation after cataract surgery","description":"This medicine is used to reduce pain and inflammation following cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Prevention of postoperative macular edema in diabetic patients","description":"It may be prescribed to reduce the risk of macular edema after cataract surgery in patients with diabetes.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Postoperative inflammation after other ocular surgeries","description":"Sometimes used off-label for inflammation control after refractive or glaucoma surgery.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"May be used off-label to reduce ocular inflammation and itching, but not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Corneal abrasion","description":"Rarely used off-label to manage pain and inflammation, but risk of delaying healing exists.","evidence":"Insufficient"}]

Primary treatment for: Postoperative ocular inflammation and pain

Also treats: Post-cataract surgery macular edema, Postoperative inflammation after other ocular surgeries

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Nepafenac (3% w/v)
Brand Namenepaonce 3% eye drop
ManufacturerEntod Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL
Action ClassNSAID's- Non-Selective COX 1&2 Inhibitors (Topical)
Route of AdministrationOphthalmic
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture. Discard 4 weeks after opening the bottle.
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
Always wash your hands before and after applying this medicine to prevent infection.
2
Do not touch the dropper tip to your eye or any surface to avoid contamination.
3
If you are using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between applications.
4
Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed, as it may increase the risk of corneal side effects.
5
Inform your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking blood thinners.
6
Avoid wearing contact lenses during the postoperative period unless your doctor approves.
7
Report any persistent eye pain, redness, or vision changes to your doctor immediately.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Eye pain after cataract surgery
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Eye redness and swelling
This medicine helps reduce inflammation.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Eye infection
This medicine is not an antibiotic.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionSystemic absorption of nepafenac after topical ocular administration is minimal. Plasma concentrations are typically below the limit of quantification (less than 0.1 ng/mL) in most patients after bilateral instillation. Therefore, systemic absorption is not clinically significant.
DistributionAfter ocular administration, nepafenac distributes primarily to the cornea, aqueous humor, and other anterior segment tissues. Protein binding of nepafenac and amfenac is high, approximately 99% and 98%, respectively, primarily to albumin.
Protein BindingNepafenac is approximately 99% bound to plasma proteins, and its active metabolite amfenac is approximately 98% bound.
MetabolismNepafenac is metabolized primarily by hydrolysis to amfenac in the eye and systemically. Amfenac undergoes further metabolism via glucuronidation and hydroxylation. The metabolites are inactive or less active than amfenac.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of nepafenac from the eye is approximately 2 to 4 hours. Systemically, the half-life of amfenac is about 1 to 2 hours.
ExcretionSystemically absorbed nepafenac and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Due to minimal systemic absorption, excretion pathways are not clinically significant.
BioavailabilityOcular bioavailability of nepafenac after topical administration is not well established, but it is designed to penetrate the cornea effectively. Systemic bioavailability is negligible.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is typically within 30 minutes to 1 hour after instillation, with peak anti-inflammatory effect occurring within 2 to 4 hours.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are generally not measurable due to minimal systemic absorption. In the eye, peak aqueous humor concentrations occur approximately 1 to 2 hours after instillation.
Duration of ActionThe duration of anti-inflammatory action is approximately 6 to 8 hours, necessitating dosing three times daily.

How It Works

This medicine is a prodrug that rapidly penetrates the cornea and is hydrolyzed by ocular esterases to amfenac, a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Amfenac inhibits the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, thereby blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are key mediators of ocular inflammation, pain, and increased vascular permeability. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, this medicine decreases postoperative inflammation, pain, and the risk of macular edema.

Mechanism Steps

1
Corneal penetration: Nepafenac, being a prodrug, is highly lipophilic and penetrates the corneal epithelium efficiently.
2
Hydrolysis to amfenac: Inside the eye, ocular esterases hydrolyze nepafenac to amfenac, the active moiety.
3
COX inhibition: Amfenac inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, blocking prostaglandin synthesis.
4
Reduced inflammation: Decreased prostaglandin levels lead to less pain, swelling, and vascular leakage in the eye.

💡 How to Take nepaonce 3% eye drop

Strength: Ophthalmic solution containing nepafenac 3% w/v (3 mg/mL) in a 5 mL bottle.

1Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2Shake the bottle gently before use.
3Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to form a pouch.
4Hold the dropper above your eye and squeeze one drop into the pouch.
5Close your eye gently and press the inner corner of your eye with your finger for 1-2 minutes to prevent drainage.
6Repeat in the other eye if prescribed.
7Replace the cap tightly after use.
8Wash your hands again to remove any medicine.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily, starting 1 day before cataract surgery, continuing on the day of surgery, and for 2 weeks postoperatively, or as prescribed by your ophthalmologist. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, severity of inflammation, and patient response. Do not exceed the recommended frequency.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric ophthalmologist.
Elderly DosageNo specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to corneal side effects and should be monitored closely.
Renal ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. However, use with caution in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is required for patients with hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. However, use with caution in severe hepatic impairment.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily. Do not exceed this frequency unless directed by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

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

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of nepaonce 3% eye drop

✅ Common Side Effects

Transient stinging or burning (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves within minutes. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Blurred vision (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving until vision clears. If it persists, contact your doctor.
Foreign body sensation (Common (5-10%))
Usually temporary. If it continues, seek medical advice.
Increased tearing (Common (5-10%))
No action needed unless excessive. Consult if bothersome.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Corneal erosion or ulcer (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe eye pain, redness, or vision loss.
Keratitis (Rare (<0.1%))
Discontinue use and consult an ophthalmologist immediately.
Increased intraocular pressure (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Monitor with regular eye exams. Report any vision changes.
Bleeding in the eye (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate care if you notice blood in the eye or sudden vision changes.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
Discontinue and seek emergency help if swelling of face or throat occurs.
Systemic effects like headache, nausea
Usually resolve on their own. Consult if persistent.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Other topical NSAIDs Major
Warfarin Major
Ophthalmic corticosteroids Moderate
Antiglaucoma medications Moderate
Artificial tears Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other topical NSAIDs
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Corticosteroids (ophthalmic)
  • Antiglaucoma medications

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No known interaction between this medicine and alcohol. However, alcohol may worsen eye dryness or irritation. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while using this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to nepafenac or any component of the formulation","Hypersensitivity to other NSAIDs","Active corneal epithelial herpes simplex keratitis","Use in patients wearing contact lenses during the postoperative period","Not for injection or oral use"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Prolonged use may increase the risk of corneal adverse events, including corneal erosion and ulceration.","Use with caution in patients with a history of bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants.","Patients with diabetes may be at increased risk of corneal side effects.","Do not use if the solution changes color or becomes cloudy.","Avoid contamination of the dropper tip.","Do not use this medicine while wearing contact lenses.","If you experience eye pain, redness, or vision changes, discontinue use and consult your doctor.","Use in pregnancy and lactation only if clearly needed and after consulting a doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether nepafenac is excreted in human milk. Systemic absorption is minimal, but caution should be exercised when used by nursing mothers. Consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose with this medicine is unlikely due to its topical ophthalmic route. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately. In case of excessive eye exposure, flush the eye with water and consult a doctor.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying this medicine. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any surface to prevent contamination. Do not use this medicine while wearing contact lenses; wait at least 10 minutes after instilling the drops before reinserting lenses if your doctor approves. Do not use this medicine for more than the prescribed duration, as prolonged use may increase the risk of corneal side effects. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Inform your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders, diabetes, or eye infections. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery immediately after application if your vision is temporarily blurred. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to corneal side effects and should be monitored closely. No specific dosage adjustment is required, but regular eye exams are recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. There are no adequate studies in pregnant women, and use should be based on the potential benefit versus risk.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine is specifically used after cataract surgery to reduce pain and inflammation. Follow your surgeon's instructions for use and attend all follow-up visits. Do not use it for other types of eye surgery unless prescribed.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific precautions for dental procedures. However, inform your dentist if you are using this medicine, especially if you have a bleeding disorder.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent irritation and infection.
🥗
Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from sunlight and glare.
😴
Follow a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E for eye health.
💧
Get adequate sleep to support healing after surgery.
🧘
Avoid strenuous activities that may increase eye pressure.
🌞
Use a clean tissue to wipe away excess drops.
🚭
Attend all follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that increase intraocular pressure, such as heavy lifting or bending, during the postoperative period. Consult your doctor before resuming exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish and flaxseeds.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Stay well hydrated to maintain eye moisture.
Limit caffeine and alcohol as they may worsen eye dryness.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision is clear. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days after surgery, but follow your doctor's advice.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine after the prescribed duration or as directed by your doctor. Do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor if you are still experiencing symptoms. If you experience any serious side effects, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine beyond the prescribed duration may increase the risk of corneal adverse events such as corneal erosion, ulceration, and delayed wound healing. It is not intended for chronic use. Regular follow-up with your ophthalmologist is recommended to monitor for any corneal changes.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cold compresses

Can help reduce eye swelling and discomfort after surgery.

Evidence: Well-established
Artificial tears

Can provide lubrication and relieve dryness, but do not replace anti-inflammatory treatment.

Evidence: Well-established
Oral NSAIDs

May be used for systemic pain relief, but not a substitute for topical treatment.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interaction between this medicine and vaccines. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine during the postoperative period.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✅ DO

Discard 4 weeks after opening

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes. Store at room temperature and protect from light. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as closely as possible. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 65-year-old man underwent cataract surgery and was prescribed this medicine.
He used the drops three times daily as directed. Within a few days, his eye pain and redness significantly reduced. He experienced mild stinging initially, which subsided. He completed the 2-week course without any serious side effects.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use as prescribed and proper application technique lead to good outcomes.
👤 A 58-year-old woman with diabetes used this medicine after cataract surgery.
She was concerned about macular edema due to her diabetes. Her ophthalmologist prescribed this medicine to reduce the risk. She used it regularly and attended follow-up visits. No signs of macular edema developed.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can help prevent postoperative macular edema in diabetic patients when used as prescribed.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour after application, with peak effect in 2 to 4 hours.

Q: Can I use this medicine with other eye drops?

A: Yes, but wait at least 5 minutes between different eye drops to prevent washing out the previous one.

Q: Is this medicine safe for diabetics?

A: Yes, it is often prescribed for diabetic patients after cataract surgery to reduce the risk of macular edema. However, monitor for corneal side effects.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses while using this medicine?

A: No, you should not wear contact lenses during the postoperative period unless your doctor approves.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used for any eye infection.
    Fact: This medicine is not an antibiotic and does not treat infections. It is used for inflammation and pain.
  • Myth: More drops mean faster healing.
    Fact: Using more than prescribed can increase the risk of side effects and does not speed up healing.
  • Myth: It is safe to use indefinitely.
    Fact: Prolonged use can cause corneal problems. Use only for the prescribed duration.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Nepafenac 3% ophthalmic solution

Brand Alternatives

  • Nepaonce 3% eye drop

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Nepafenac 3%","class":"NSAID prodrug","frequency":"Three times daily","common_use":"Post-cataract surgery"},{"medicine":"Bromfenac 0.09%","class":"NSAID","frequency":"Once daily","common_use":"Post-cataract surgery"},{"medicine":"Ketorolac 0.5%","class":"NSAID","frequency":"Four times daily","common_use":"Post-cataract surgery"}]

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