Medications
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ADRENERGIC AGENTS
Commonly Used Drugs
Brimonidine (Alphagan P)
Apraclonidine (Iopidine)
Dipivefrin (Propine)
Uses of This Medicine
Adrenergic agents are used to lower eye pressure in eyes with glaucoma. They may be used alone or in combination with other medications. Adrenergic agents lower eye pressure by reducing the production of aqueous (eye fluid) and increasing the drainage of aqueous from the eye.
Before Using This Medicine
Be sure to tell your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to any medicines
- Have any medical problems, especially high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, or heart disease
- Are taking other prescription or non-prescription medications
- Are using contact lenses
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Have any other health problems
The usual dose is 1 drop in the affected eye every 12 or 8 hours. Do not try to catch up on missed doses by applying more than one dose at a time. Use this medication only as directed by your doctor
Side Effects
(this is a list of the most common side effects; for a complete list, see the insert provided with your medication)
The most frequent side effects are temporary stinging and burning, and blurred vision after instillation of the drop. Following prolonged administration, some patients experience allergy with irritation and redness of the eye. Systemic side effects may occur rarely, and include increased heart rate, palpitations, altered heart rhythm, headache, faintness, and high blood pressure with dipivefrin. Dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, decreased heart rate, and low blood pressure may occur with brimonidine or apraclonidine. These effects occur rarely at usual prescribed doses.
Special Precautions
Brimonidine and apraclonidine are CONTRAINDICATED for use when taking certain antidepressants and must not be used by young children. ASK YOUR DOCTOR.
You must keep your regularly scheduled appointment with your eye doctor so the effect of this medicine can be monitored. All medicines should be taken exactly as prescribed. If you experience any problems with this medication, call your doctor immediately.
