Alphagan P
Generic Name:
Brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution
Brand Names:
Alphagan, Alphagan P
Alphagan P Description:
Alphagan P is a topical eye drop medication that is used to treat glaucoma and other conditions involving ocular hypertension, or elevated pressure in the eye. Alphagan P lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) inside the eye in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Alphagan P Side Effects:
Common side effects of Alphagan P include:
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Burning sensation or stinging in the eye
- Conjunctival hyperemia (red eye)
- Eye dryness
- Eye pruritus (itching)
For more information, see our Alphagan P side effects page.
Alphagan P Uses:
Alphagan P works to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in the eye by reducing the amount of fluid in the eye (aqueous humor) and increasing the outward flow of fluid from the eye. The aqueous humor normally flows in and out of the eye in a balanced manner, but in patients with elevated IOP, the fluid builds up within the eye. Elevated IOP can lead to optic nerve damage, vision loss, and even blindness if left untreated, and it is one of the main risk factors for glaucoma.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. An estimated 2 million people have glaucoma, with 80,000 of those with glaucoma rendered legally blind from the disease.
Alphagan P Interactions:
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Alphagan P, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs should not be taken in combination with Alphagan P, as interactions may occur:
- Anesthetics
- Barbiturates
- Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- Opiates
- Other anti-hypertensives
- Sedatives
Alphagan P Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Alphagan P is prescribed to be taken as one drop in the affected eye or eyes three times daily. Drops should be given approximately 8 hours apart. Wait at least 5 minutes before applying any other eye drops to the eye. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before applying drops, and the drops should be delivered into the inside of the lower lid. After applying the drops, gently close your eyes and press on the inner corner of the eye for 1-2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed by the eye. Avoid blinking while applying pressure.
Missing a Dose of Alphagan P
If you miss a dose of Alphagan P, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule.
Alphagan P Overdose
Seek medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication or if you have accidentally ingested Alphagan P.
Alphagan P FDA Approval:
August 19, 2005
Alphagan P Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is currently no Black Box warning on Alphagan P.
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July 30, 2010, 2:23 pm
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July 30, 2010, 2:13 pm
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July 29, 2010, 12:33 pm
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July 28, 2010, 3:58 pm
