Description

Alphagan P Drug Side Effects and Interactions

Chemical Name BRIMONIDINE (bri-MOE-ni-deen)

Alphagan P is an eye drop prescription used to treat open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It works by reducing the amount of fluid in the eye, thereby decreasing pressure inside the eye.

Alphagan P should not be used without a prescription, nor should it be used on children under 2.

Directions

Prior to using Alphagan P, it is important to wash your hands to mitigate the risk of eye infections. Use Alphagan P as prescribed by your doctor. You should not increase or decrease your dosage without consulting your doctor.

To avoid contaminating the dropper, do not touch the dropper to your eye. Contamination of the dropper can result in an infection that could cause vision problems.

If you notice that your prescription of Alphagan P has changed colors or has particles in it, your pharmacies should be able to provide you with a new medicine.

Alphagan Dosage Information

To apply Alphagan P:

1. Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a well. Hold the dropped above the eye, pointing the tip down.
2. Squeeze out a drop.
3. Close your eyes for 2-3 minutes without blinking or squinting. Press your finger gently on the inside of the corner of your eye to prevent the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

It is important to only use the number of drops indicated by your doctor. If you need to add any other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes.

If you miss a dose of Alphagan, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dosage, skip the missed one.

Cautions

You should be careful when using Alphagan P if you are required to be alert. Alphagan P can impair your thinking or reactions and should not be taken if you have plans to drive or operate machinery.

This medication can make you drowsy or slow your breathing.

You may be having an allergic reaction to Alphagan P if you are experiencing hives, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat or have difficulty breathing. If you are having an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Alphagan P are usually mild in nature and include:

• Itchy, red or irritated eyes
• Mild stinging or burning when applying eye drops
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Tiredness or drowsiness

Find out more about Alphagan P side effects

When using Alphagan P, contact your doctor if you experience:

• Severe swelling, discomfort, redness or burning around your eye
• Eye pain
• Increased watering of the eye
• Overbright appearance of lights
• Halos around lights
• Headaches
• Night blindness
• Double vision

Some less common, but severe side effects can include:

• Blindness
• Bloody eye
• Confusion
• Fast heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness, faintness

Alphagan P can interact with other drugs. Consult your doctor before using Alphagan P if you are also taking narcotic pain medication, muscle relaxants, sleeping aids or medications to treat seizures, anxiety or depression.

When used according to the prescription, Alphagan P is effective at treating open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.