Phenylephrine ophthalmic causes constriction of blood vessels in the eyes. It also enlarges the pupils, reduces the production of fluid in the eyes, and increases the amount of fluid that drains from the eyes.
Phenylephrine ophthalmic available over-the-counter is used to relieve redness, burning, irritation, and dryness of the eye caused by wind, sun, and other minor irritants. Prescription-strength phenylephrine ophthalmic is used to constrict blood vessels in the eye and to dilate (make bigger) the pupil for conditions such as glaucoma, before surgery, and before eye examinations.
Phenylephrine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
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 phenylephrine ophthalmic. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Phenylephrine ophthalmic may contains preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.
Do not use phenylephrine 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. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Phenylephrine ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.
Do not use phenylephrine ophthalmic if you have glaucoma, except under the supervision of your doctor.
Do not use phenylephrine ophthalmic after eye surgery, if you have an eye infection, if you have an eye injury, or if you have a problem with the normal tearing of your eyes without the approval and direction of your doctor. Using phenylephrine ophthalmic under these circumstances could lead to absorption of the drug by the body, and side effects could affect the heart.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you
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have any type of heart condition, including high blood pressure
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take any medicines to treat a heart condition
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have asthma
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have diabetes or
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have thyroid problems.
You may not be able to use phenylephrine ophthalmic, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Phenylephrine ophthalmic is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether phenylephrine 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 phenylephrine ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Do not use phenylephrine ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
