ALPHAGAN DROPS 5 ML

How ALPHAGAN DROPS 5 ML Works

• ALPHAGAN® (brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution) 0.1% or 0.15% is a medication primarily used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It achieves this therapeutic effect through a dual mechanism of action, reducing the production of aqueous humor and increasing uveoscleral outflow.
• Brimonidine, the active ingredient in ALPHAGAN®, is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. When applied topically to the eye, brimonidine selectively binds to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors located on the ciliary body. This binding triggers a cascade of intracellular events that ultimately lead to a decrease in the rate of aqueous humor production. Aqueous humor is the fluid that fills the space between the lens and the cornea, nourishing these structures and maintaining the eye's shape. By reducing its production, brimonidine helps to lower the pressure inside the eye.
• In addition to reducing aqueous humor production, brimonidine also enhances the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway. The uveoscleral pathway is an alternative route for fluid to exit the eye, bypassing the trabecular meshwork, which is the primary drainage system. Brimonidine is believed to relax the ciliary muscle, which opens up the spaces within the uveoscleral pathway, facilitating increased fluid drainage.
• The combined effect of reduced aqueous humor production and increased uveoscleral outflow results in a significant decrease in intraocular pressure. This pressure reduction helps to protect the optic nerve from damage, which is the underlying cause of glaucoma. By preserving optic nerve function, ALPHAGAN® helps to prevent further vision loss in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
• Furthermore, ALPHAGAN's neuroprotective properties contribute to its efficacy. Brimonidine has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in various studies, suggesting it may protect retinal ganglion cells (the nerve cells that transmit visual information from the eye to the brain) from damage independent of its IOP-lowering effect. This neuroprotection adds an extra layer of benefit for glaucoma patients, helping to preserve their vision.
• The effect of ALPHAGAN DROPS 5 ML typically starts within one to two hours after administration, with the maximum effect seen around two hours. The IOP-lowering effect can last for approximately 12 hours, which is why it is usually administered twice daily. As with any medication, it's crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and administration schedule provided by your healthcare professional to ensure optimal efficacy and minimize potential side effects.

Common side effects of Alphagan eye drops include allergic conjunctivitis, blurred vision, eye irritation, eye pain, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, drowsiness. Less common side effects include: visual disturbance, conjunctivitis, corneal disorder, lacrimation disorder, photophobia, superficial punctate keratitis, eyelid erythema, eye dryness, blepharitis, upper eyelid edema, eye discharge, dizziness, rhinitis, general weakness, gastrointestinal symptoms.

• If you miss a dose of Alphagan eye drops, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Keep ALPHAGAN DROPS 5ML away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store ALPHAGAN DROPS 5ML at room temperature.

• **Use as Directed:** Always use ALPHAGAN® eye drops exactly as your doctor has prescribed. Do not alter the dosage or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider. Using it correctly ensures you receive the maximum benefit from the medication and minimize potential side effects.
• **Proper Instillation Technique:** To instill ALPHAGAN® eye drops correctly, tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above your eye and gently squeeze to release one drop. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any surface to prevent contamination.
• **Wait Before Inserting Contacts:** If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using ALPHAGAN® eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes after instilling the drops before reinserting your lenses. This helps prevent the medication from interacting with the lens material and causing irritation or discomfort.
• **Be Aware of Potential Side Effects:** ALPHAGAN® eye drops can cause side effects such as blurred vision, drowsiness, dry mouth, or eye irritation. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving, until you know how the medication affects you.
• **Storage Instructions:** Store ALPHAGAN® eye drops at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not use the drops if the solution changes color or contains particles. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

• ALPHAGAN DROPS 5 ML is administered as eye drops, so it is unlikely to be affected by food. No specific food interactions have been identified. You can use ALPHAGAN DROPS 5 ML regardless of your food intake.