Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Tetrahydrozoline is classified as a sympathomimetic amine drug and is commonly used as a decongestant to alleviate minor eye irritations caused by environmental factors such as smog, dust, swimming, or smoke. The drug acts by constricting the blood vessels in the eyes temporarily.
Uses and Dosage
Tetrahydrozoline for ophthalmic use is available in liquid form and is meant to be applied to the eyes.
The affected eyes should typically receive three to four drops a day, as required. Only use tetrahydrozoline as instructed, avoiding the temptation to overuse or underuse it, or use it more frequently than prescribed by your physician or outlined on the packaging.
To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:
- Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
- Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
- Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
- Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
- Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
- Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
- Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
- Wash hands to remove any residual medication.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- stinging or burning of the eye
- blurred vision
- increased eye redness or irritation
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- headache
- sweating
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- nervousness
Caution
Prior to using tetrahydrozoline, notify your pharmacist or doctor of any known allergies to the medication or other allergens. This product may consist of inert ingredients like benzalkonium chloride, which can elicit allergic reactions or other complications.
Before taking this medication, communicate with your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have had glaucoma, heart problems like chest pain or heart attack, high blood pressure, diabetes, eye injury/infection, or hyperthyroidism.
Temporary vision impairment may occur following drug application. Avoid activities like driving, operating machinery, or undertaking any task that demands clear vision until you have regained normal vision.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when deemed necessary. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
It is unclear whether this medication can pass into breast milk. Consult your physician before nursing.
Form and Strength
Visine is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Visine eye drops:
- 15ml
FAQ
Is it OK to use Visine every day?
You can use Visine occasionally for a short time, but you should not use it for more than 72 hours at a time or every day consistently.
What can too much Visine do to your eyes?
Overuse of this type of medication may result in increased eye redness.
Resources
- https://www.nvisioncenters.com/eye-health/is-visine-safe-know-the-risks/#:~:text=You%20can%20use%20Visine%20occasionally,red%20and%20worse%20with%20time
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682563.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-13749/tetrahydrozoline-ophthalmic-eye/details
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18383-tetrahydrozoline-ophthalmic-drops
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/visine.html
