Alphagan P Eyedrops (Brimonidine)

Description

Indications

Ophthalmic brimonidine is prescribed to reduce intraocular pressure in individuals with glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Belonging to the class of drugs known as alpha adrenergic agonists, brimonidine operates by diminishing the quantity of fluid in the eyes.

Uses and Dosage

Ophthalmic brimonidine is supplied as a liquid solution for instillation into the eyes. Typically, it is applied to the affected eye(s) three times a day.

Administer brimonidine eye drops at approximately the same times each day, aiming for a spacing of about 8 hours between each of the three daily doses. Utilize brimonidine eye drops precisely as directed, avoiding deviations in dosage—neither exceeding nor reducing the amount, and refrain from using them more frequently than prescribed by your doctor.

While brimonidine eye drops may manage your condition, it does not provide a cure. Continue using brimonidine eye drops even if you are feeling well. Do not discontinue the use of brimonidine eye drops without consulting your doctor.

To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:

1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
2. Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
3. Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
4. Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
5. Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
6. Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
7. Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
8. Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
9. Wash hands to remove any residual medication.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• itchy, irritated, red, stinging, or burning eyes
• dry eyes
• watery or runny eyes
• red or swollen eyelids
• sensitivity to light
• blurred vision
• headache
• drowsiness
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• dry mouth

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• rash
• difficulty breathing
• seeing specks or flashes of light
• blind spots
• fainting
• dizziness
• nausea

Caution

• Before initiating the use of this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to this medication, apraclonidine, or any other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have conditions such as blood vessel diseases, blood circulation disorders, depression, severe heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, Raynaud’s disease, or low blood pressure upon standing.
• This drug may induce dizziness, drowsiness, or temporary blurring of vision. Refrain from activities requiring alertness or clear vision, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely. Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages, and discuss the use of marijuana with your doctor.
• Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly drowsiness.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when it is clearly essential, and discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• The passage of this medication into breast milk is not well understood. Before breastfeeding, consult your doctor for guidance.

Form and Strength

Alphagan P Eyedrops is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Alphagan P Eyedrops eye drops:
  • 0.10 %
  • 0.15 %
• brimonidine eye solution:
  • 0.15 %

FAQ

How often can you use Alphagan P Eyedrops?

The recommended dose is one drop of Alphagan P in the affected eye(s) three times daily, approximately 8 hours apart.

How long does it take Alphagan P to work?

Alphagan P typically lowers eye pressure within 2 to 3 hours after you apply it.

Resources:

1. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=264c4494-c225-486f-888a-caaf36be46b3#:~:text=other%20topical%20…-,The%20recommended%20dose%20is%20one%20drop%20of%20ALPHAGAN%C2%AE%20P,products%20to%20lower%20intraocular%20pressure
2. https://www.goodrx.com/brimonidine/what-is#faqs
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/brimonidine-ophthalmic-route/precautions/drg-20067572?p=1
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-21714/alphagan-p-ophthalmic-eye/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601232.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/alphagan.html