Rebacer 10 ml

Rebacer Eye Drops is a sterile ophthalmic suspension available in a 10 ml bottle. Each ml of the suspension contains Rebamipide 20 mg (2.0% w/v) as the active ingredient. The product is strictly for external ophthalmic use only and must not be injected or ingested. The bottle should be shaken well before each use. It is a mucin secretagogue and ocular surface protectant used primarily for the treatment of dry eye disease of all severities. The product is packaged in a clean white box with black text, featuring a curved design at the bottom with a magenta section on the left labeled “Sterile” and a dark blue section on the right.

Rebamipide is a synthetic quinolinone derivative that was initially developed as a gastroprotective agent for the treatment of gastric ulcers. Its ophthalmic application leverages its unique multifactorial mechanism of action on the ocular surface. The primary mechanism is as a mucin secretagogue: rebamipide upregulates the gene expression of membrane-associated mucins (MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16) on the apical surface of corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells, and increases the secretion of secreted-type mucin (MUC5AC) in the tear fluid. It also increases the number of conjunctival goblet cells, which are the primary source of mucin in the tear film. This enhanced mucin production stabilizes the aqueous layer of the tear film, reducing tear hyperosmolarity and improving tear film breakup time (TBUT). In addition to its mucin secretagogue action, rebamipide possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the production of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-8, and NF-kB signaling in corneal and conjunctival cells. It also acts as a free radical scavenger, neutralizing oxygen free radicals that contribute to ocular surface damage. Furthermore, rebamipide promotes epithelial cell proliferation and migration, restoring the barrier function of the corneal epithelium. This combination of mucin secretagogue, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytoprotective actions makes rebamipide a unique therapeutic agent that addresses multiple pathophysiological aspects of dry eye disease simultaneously.

The primary indication for Rebacer Eye Drops is the treatment of dry eye disease (DED) of mild, moderate, and severe severity. It is particularly effective in aqueous deficiency dry eye and in patients with mucin-deficient dry eye where the conjunctival goblet cell density is reduced. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant improvement in tear film breakup time, Schirmer’s test values, fluorescein corneal staining, and Rose Bengal staining scores. It is also indicated for the management of ocular surface disorders associated with decreased mucin production, including post-surgical dry eye and dry eye associated with contact lens wear. In addition, studies have shown its efficacy in allergic keratoconjunctivitis, where it helps reduce the dependence on topical corticosteroids. The product is intended for use in adults and should be used under the supervision of a qualified ophthalmologist.

The recommended dosage is 1 drop instilled into each affected eye 4 times daily. Treatment should be continued for at least 4 to 12 weeks for optimal results, as the mucin secretagogue and epithelial healing effects require sustained use. The product can be used long-term as needed, and clinical studies have shown no cumulative toxicity with prolonged use. If a dose is missed, it should be instilled as soon as remembered without doubling the next dose.

The product is generally very well tolerated with an excellent safety profile. The most commonly reported side effect is dysgeusia (bitter or altered taste in the mouth), occurring in approximately 10% of patients, which is transient and resolves on its own. Other mild side effects include temporary blurred vision immediately after instillation, mild eye irritation or stinging, and a foreign body sensation. No serious adverse effects have been reported in clinical trials. The absence of preservatives in the formulation further minimizes the risk of preservative-related ocular surface toxicity, which is a common problem with conventional artificial tears used chronically.

Serious side effects are extremely rare. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience persistent eye pain, worsening vision, severe redness, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Important precautions include not wearing contact lenses during use, as the suspension may leave deposits on the lens surface. If using other eye medications simultaneously, a gap of at least 5 to 10 minutes should be maintained between different drops. Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until their vision is clear after application, as temporary blurred vision is common. The dropper tip should not be touched to the eye or any surface to maintain sterility. The product should not be used if the suspension changes in appearance. The product is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, though consultation with a doctor is recommended.

The product should be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and kept out of reach of children. The bottle should be tightly closed after each use. The product is available in India at a price of approximately 215 rupees per 10 ml bottle and is available through major online pharmacy platforms and offline pharmacies with a valid prescription.