Rebamipide eye drops generally have good local tolerability. Some patients may experience transient stinging, eye itching, or hyperemia after use. Most are mild, transient reactions, and correct identification and management can help ensure continuity of treatment.

I. Transient Stinging

Common manifestations: A burning sensation or stinging occurs at the moment of instillation and usually resolves spontaneously within seconds to minutes.

Management measures: Bring the solution to room temperature before instillation and avoid instilling refrigerated solution directly; gently close the eyes after instillation to reduce irritation; do not rub the eyes.

Situations requiring vigilance: If stinging persists and worsens, or is accompanied by marked tearing or blurred vision, suspend use and seek medical attention to rule out corneal injury or drug intolerance.

II. Eye Itching

Common manifestations: Mild itching after use, possibly related to solution irritation or pre-existing ocular surface inflammation.

Management measures: Avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent worsening irritation or secondary infection; cold compresses on the eyelids may relieve discomfort; distinguish whether it is an allergic reaction.

Situations requiring vigilance: If eye itching is accompanied by eyelid redness and swelling, rash, or marked edema, allergy should be considered; discontinue the drug immediately and seek medical attention.

III. Hyperemia

Common manifestations: Mild conjunctival redness, mostly transient and self-resolving.

Management measures: Observe the degree and duration of hyperemia; avoid prolonged eye use, staying up late, and wearing contact lenses; maintain eye hygiene.

Situations requiring vigilance: If hyperemia persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain, photophobia, or increased discharge, discontinue the drug and seek medical attention to rule out infection or other ocular surface diseases.

IV. General Management Principles

Mild transient reactions: Continue medication and observe; most do not require discontinuation.

Persistent or worsening symptoms: Suspend medication and promptly obtain ophthalmologic evaluation to determine whether it is an adverse drug reaction.

Use with multiple medications: Allow 5–10 minutes between different eye drops to reduce additive local irritation.

Recording and communication: Record the time and frequency of symptom onset, inform the physician at follow-up visits, and adjust the treatment regimen if necessary.