Alphagan Z Bottle Of 5ml Eye Drops

Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution is used to lower pressure in the eye in patients having open-angle glaucoma or high pressure in the eyes (ocular hypertension). It contains brimonidine as the active ingredient. Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution works by decreasing the production of aqueous humour (watery fluid similar to plasma) in the eye which helps to reduce the pressure inside the eyes.

Use this medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor. It is meant for external use only. Do not swallow or ingest.

Before using this medicine, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, breastfeeding, and about your complete medical history. Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution is not recommended for use in children below 12 years and is contraindicated in neonates and infants (less than 2 years of age).

Dosage

Overdose

• As Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution 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 have instilled extra quantity of eye drops than recommended, wipe out the excess medicine with a clean tissue or cotton.

Missed a Dose

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

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution works by decreasing the production of aqueous humour (watery fluid similar to plasma) in the eye which helps to reduce the pressure inside the eyes.

Directions for Use

• Use Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution exactly as instructed by your doctor.
• Follow the directions carefully and do not miss an application.
• 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. The dropper must be kept clean to avoid infections.
• Using a clean tissue or cloth, wipe any excess liquid from your face.
• Use the exact number of drops as recommended by your doctor.
• If you have been prescribed any other eye drops or eye ointments, keep an interval of at least 5 minutes between both medicines.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I instil Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution during pregnancy?

There is limited information on the effect of Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution in pregnancy. Hence, this medicine should only be used in pregnant women if recommended by the doctor after assessing the need and the risk.

Breast Feeding

Can I instil Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution while breastfeeding?

No information is available if Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution passes into human breast milk. Thus, this medicine should not be used in breastfeeding women.

Driving

Can I drive if I have instilled Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution?

Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution can cause blurring of vision, sleepiness, and tiredness. If you experience any such effects that may affect your ability to drive safely, it is advised to avoid driving. If blurred vision occurs, wait for the vision to clear before driving again.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol if I have instilled Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution?

Consuming alcohol when you are using Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution can cause dizziness or sleepiness. Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You are using Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution 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 the heart or any 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 lenses.
• You have a condition called dry eyes.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to brimonidine or any other ingredient of Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution.
• If you are taking medicines called monoamine oxidase inhibitors or other antidepressant medicines. If you are not sure what these medicines are, please confirm with your doctor.
• Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution should not be used in children aged less than 2 years.
• If you are breastfeeding.

Side effects

• Tiredness
• Eye irritation (burning, stinging, itching)
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Drowsiness

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Since Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution is to be used externally, it is less likely to interact with other medicines.
• However, consult your doctor if you are taking other medicines for treating any other health conditions.
• Alphagan Z should not be used with medicines such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors and with antidepressants (tricyclic antidepressants, mianserin).
• Caution should be exercised when this medicine is used along with other medicines used in the management of high blood pressure.

Storage and disposal

• Store Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution 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 Z cause low blood pressure?

Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution may cause a decrease in blood pressure in some individuals. This effect is generally mild and goes away in some time. However, if the effect persists or worsens, talk to your doctor.

The doctor has given me another eye drop for my medical condition. Can I use Alphagan Z with another eye drop?

Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution can be used with other eye drops under the supervision of your doctor. However, there should be a gap of a minimum 5-10 minutes between using these 2 eye drops.

Does Alphagan Z cause blurring of vision?

Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution may cause blurring of vision. If you experience any such effects, it is advised to wait until your vision clears before driving or operating any machinery.

Is it necessary to store Alphagan Z eye drops in the refrigerator?

Store Alphagan Z ophthalmic solution at a temperature below 25 °C in a cool and dry place. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Do not freeze.