Brand names: Alphagan®, Alphagan® P
- Español:
- Solución ocular de brimonidina
Brimonidine eye solution
What is brimonidine eye solution?
BRIMONIDINE (Alphagan®, Alphagan® P) helps to reduce pressure in the eye for patients with increased pressure or open-angle glaucoma. Generic brimonidine eye solution is available for Alphagan®. Generic Alphagan® P is not yet available.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:• eye infection or damage
• wear contact lenses
• closed-angle glaucoma
• heart disease
• depression
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to brimonidine, benzalkonium chloride, Purite® preservative, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Brimonidine eye solution is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower lid with the index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface. Squeeze one drop into the pouch. Close the eye gently; do not blink or rub your eyes. Apply pressure to the inside cornor of your eye for a few minutes after placing the medicine to help it stay in your eye longer. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.What drug(s) may interact with brimonidine?
• medicines that cause drowsiness or tiredness - brimonidine may increase these effects• medicines for high blood pressure or other heart problems - brimonidine may have additional effects.
Tell your prescriber or other health care professional about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also, tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting any of your medications.
What should I watch for while taking brimonidine?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Report any serious side effects promptly. Stop using brimonidine if your eyes get inflamed, painful, or have a discharge, and see your prescriber or health care professional as soon as you can.Be careful not to touch the tip of the dispensing container onto the eye, or any other surface. Serious eye infections can result from contamination of eye solutions. Do not use eye cups.
If you are using another eye medicine, wait at least 10 minutes in between using the medicines.
If you wear contact lenses, take them out before using brimonidine and wait 15 minutes before putting them back into your eye.
Brimonidine may cause drowsiness or tiredness. Be careful driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
If brimonidine makes your mouth dry, sucking on hard candy or using an artificial saliva product might lessen this effect.
Wear dark glasses if brimonidine makes your eyes more sensitive to light.
What side effects may I notice from using brimonidine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:Rare:
• inflamed or infected eyes or eyelids
• bleeding in your eye
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• dry mouth
• blurred vision
• headache
• tiredness
• bitter taste in the mouth
• burning, stinging, or discomfort immediately after using the solution
• dry or itchy eyes
• sensitivity of the eyes to light
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.Store at room temperature less than 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
