Alphagan Eye Drops 2.5ml

Alphagan Eye Drop is used to lower pressure in the eye in patients having open-angle glaucoma and ocular high pressure in the eyes. It contains brimonidine as its active ingredient. It works initially by decreasing the production of aqueous humour (watery fluid similar to plasma) in the eye which decreases the pressure inside the eye.

If used for a longer duration it also works by drainage of aqueous humour. Redness, burning, itching, foreign body sensation in eyes, blurring of eyes, allergic swelling of eyelid or conjunctiva are some of the side effects of using this medicine. If side effects bother you or your condition does not improve over time, inform your doctor.

Dosage

Overdose

• As Alphagan Eye Drop is meant for external use, cases of overdose are unlikely. However, upon accidental ingestion, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.
• If you instil extra drops of it, wash eyes thoroughly with water.

Missed a Dose

If you have missed the application of Alphagan Eye Drop, instil it as soon as possible. Do not instil more drops to compensate for the missed application.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

It works initially by decreasing the production of aqueous humour (watery fluid similar to plasma) in the eye which decreases the pressure inside the eye. If used for a longer duration, it also works by drainage of aqueous humour.

Directions for Use

• Use Alphagan Eye Drop as instructed by your doctor.
• Follow directions carefully. Do not miss doses.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying.
• Close your eyes for 2-3 minutes and do not blink or squeeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes with the dropper and it must be kept clean.
• Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a tissue.
• Use the exact number of drops recommended.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I instil Alphagan Eye Drop during pregnancy?

Alphagan Eye Drop is to be used locally as eye drops and there are fewer chances of absorption in the blood. However, this medicine should be used under medical supervision by a pregnant woman.

Breast Feeding

Can I instil Alphagan Eye Drop while breastfeeding?

It is not known if Alphagan Eye Drop passes in breastmilk or not. Use of this medicine while breastfeeding is not recommended.

Driving

Can I drive if I have used Alphagan Eye Drop?

Alphagan Eye Drop can cause blurring of vision, sleepiness and tiredness. Avoid driving in such situations and until your vision is clear.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Alphagan Eye Drop?

Consuming alcohol when you are using Alphagan Eye Drop can cause dizziness or sleepiness. Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You are using Alphagan Eye Drop for your child of age above 2 years. Use should be done with caution in such patients.
• You have low mood, brain disease, reduce blood flow to heart or part of the body, decrease in blood pressure after a change of body posture, swelling and narrowing of small blood vessels of feet, hand, etc.
• You have any liver, heart or kidney disease.
• You are using contact lense as a component called benzalkonium chloride present in this medicine can cause discolouration of soft contact lenses.
• Your eyes are dry. Use should be done with caution.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to Brimonidine or any of the other ingredients Alphagan Eye Drop.
• If you are using this medicine with other medicines such as monoamine oxidase inhibitor and a tricyclic antidepressant group of medicine.
• Alphagan Eye Drop should not be used for a child of age less than 2 years.

Side effects

• Redness, burning, itching
• The sensation of foreign particles in the eyes
• Blurring of eyes
• Allergic swelling of eyelid or conjunctiva
• Headache
• Sleepiness
• Dryness of mouth
• Tiredness
• Dryness of eyes
• Dizziness
• Intolerance to light

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Alphagan Eye Drop should not be used with medicines such as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (used in brain diseases).
• Concomitant use along with medicines used in high blood pressure should be done with caution.

Storage and disposal

• Store Alphagan Eye Drop at a temperature below 25 °C in a cool and dry place.
• Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Alphagan Eye Drop cause blurring of vision?

Alphagan Eye Drop can cause blurring of vision as a side effect.