oxymetazoline ophthalmic Health Article

Generic name(s):

oxymetazoline ophthalmic

Brand name(s):

Ocuclear, Visine L.R., Visine Long Lasting

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

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying oxymetazoline ophthalmic. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Oxymetazoline ophthalmic may contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.

Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic more often or continuously for longer than 48 to 72 hours without consulting a doctor. Chronic use of this medication may damage the blood vessels (veins and arteries) in the eyes. Consult a doctor if your symptoms do not improve or appear to worsen.

What is oxymetazoline ophthalmic?

Oxymetazoline ophthalmic causes constriction of blood vessels in the eyes. It also decreases itching and irritation of the eyes.

Oxymetazoline ophthalmic is used to relieve redness, burning, irritation, and dryness of the eye caused by wind, sun, and other minor irritants.

Oxymetazoline 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 oxymetazoline ophthalmic?

Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic if you have glaucoma, except under the supervision of your doctor.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you

• have any type of heart condition, including high blood pressure;

• take any medicines to treat a heart condition;

• have asthma;

• have diabetes; or

• have thyroid problems.

You may not be able to take oxymetazoline ophthalmic, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying oxymetazoline ophthalmic. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Oxymetazoline ophthalmic may contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.

Oxymetazoline ophthalmic is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether oxymetazoline ophthalmic will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether oxymetazoline passes into breast milk. Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use oxymetazoline ophthalmic?

Use oxymetazoline eyedrops exactly as directed by your doctor, or follow the directions that accompany the package. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after using the eyedrops.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying oxymetazoline ophthalmic. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Oxymetazoline ophthalmic may contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.

To apply the eyedrops:

• Tilt the head back slightly and pull down on the lower eyelid. Position the dropper above the eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close the eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down the tear duct. Repeat the process in the other eye if needed.

Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic more often or continuously for longer than 48 to 72 hours without consulting a doctor. Chronic use of this medication may damage the blood vessels (veins and arteries) in the eyes. Consult a doctor if your symptoms do not improve or appear to worsen. Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye. Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it. Store oxymetazoline ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.