epinephrine ophthalmic Health Article

Generic name(s):

epinephrine ophthalmic

Brand name(s):

Epifrin, Epinal, Eppy/N

What is the most important information I should know about epinephrine ophthalmic?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to epinephrine, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

Before using epinephrine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have high blood pressure or a history of cataract surgery.

Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses. This medication may contain a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using epinephrine before putting your contact lenses in.

Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

What is epinephrine ophthalmic?

Epinephrine ophthalmic reduces the amount of fluid in the eye, which decreases pressure inside the eye.

Epinephrine ophthalmic is used to treat glaucoma and is also used during eye surgery.

Epinephrine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using epinephrine ophthalmic?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to epinephrine, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

Before using epinephrine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• asthma;

• diabetes;

• heart disease, blood circulation problems;

• high blood pressure;

• a thyroid disorder; or

• a history of cataract surgery.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use epinephrine ophthalmic.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether epinephrine ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use epinephrine ophthalmic?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Wash your hands before using the eye drops. Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses. This medication may contain a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using epinephrine before putting your contact lenses in.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the dropper tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.

• Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• If you use any other eye medications, wait about 5 minutes after using epinephrine eye drops before using the other medication.

• Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Store the drops at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.