USES: This medication relaxes muscles in the eye causing the pupil to dilate (widen). It is used in conditions where the eye is inflamed. It is also used during eye examinations.
HOW TO USE: To apply eye drops, first wash your hands. Be careful not to touch the dropper or let it touch your eye to avoid contamination. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over the eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 or 2 minutes. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. If more than one type of eye drop is to be used, wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye medication. Do not use eye drops that have changed color.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause temporary drowsiness or blurred vision. Use caution if driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness. Headache, brow ache, temporary burning or stinging may occur initially. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. This medication may cause your eyes to be sensitive to bright light. Wear sunglasses for protection. Inform your doctor if you develop: changes in vision, eye pain, sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Do not use this medication while wearing soft contact lenses. The lenses may be discolored. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding. Tell your doctor if you have: glaucoma.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: This medication can affect the way your body responds to other drugs. Before you use it, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: When your doctor tells you to stop using this medication, throw away any unused portion. Do not allow anyone else to use this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply as soon as remembered do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze this medication. Store solution in a cool, dark place. Discard the solution if it turns brown, cloudy or contains particles.
