🌼Pirenoxine, i.e. 1-hydroxy-5-oxo-5H-pyrido-[3,2-a]-phenoxazine-3-carboxylic acid (also referred to as pirfenoxone) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, a known anti-cataract agent, is used as an active ingredient for the topical treatment of inflammatory conditions. More specifically, pirenoxine is used for the topical treatment of ophthalmic inflammatory conditions such as corneal and conjunctival inflammations, uveitis, ocular oedema.
Pirenoxine is an anti-cataract agent which is used in many asian countries under the name Catalin. the drug may play an important role in cataract prevention. It is supposed that the anti-cataract effect of pirenoxine results from inhibition of sulfhydryl combination of quinoid substances with lens proteins and the inhibition leads to the maintenance of lens transparency.
Quinoid theory suggests that quinones, which are produced because of impaired metabolism of aromatic amino acids (tryptophan, tyrosine etc.) are important for cataractogenesis. Lens opacity occurs when its water-soluble proteins denature and transform into dense compounds under the influence of quinones. Many studies clearly demonstrate that Catalin (pirenoxine) eye drops provide anti-cataract effect on all layers of the lens, in particular, cortex and posterior capsule. High therapeutic efficacy and long-term safety allow for recommending Catalin to slow the progression of cataract, in particular, early cataracts in patients under 59 years of age. Further studies are needed to assess the effects of pirenoxine in various cataracts and risk of cataracts.
Pirenoxine Sodium Eye Drops are the most commonly used eye drops for the treatment of preliminary stage senile cataracts, mild diabetic cataracts, or congenital cataracts.
Common side effects include, but may not be limited to keratitis superficialis diffusa, conjunctival hyperaemia, and conjunctivitis, eye irritation, itching of eye, blurred vision, eye discharge, lacrimation, eye pain, abnormal sensation in eye, and foreign body sensation in eyes. Seek medical attention if the following develop: eye irritation, itching of the eye.
Driving or operating machinery should be avoided, as it does may cause ailment.
Use of Pirenoxine Sodium Eye Drops during pregnancy or breast feeding is considered safe.