Pilocarpine

Generic name: Pilocarpine Solution - Ophtalmic

Pilocarpine Hydrochloride is a cholinergic prepared as a sterile topical ophthalmic solution.
Pilocarpine can be used in the medical management of glaucoma, especially open-angle glaucoma, in those cases in which the intraocular pressure can be controlled adequately by the topical administration of pilocarpine. In acute (closed-angle) glaucoma, pilocarpine hydrochloride may be used alone, or in combination with other cholinergic agents or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, to relieve tension prior to emergency surgery.
Patients may be maintained on pilocarpine hydrochloride as long as intraocular pressure is controlled and there is no deterioration in the visual fields. The choice of concentration should be determined by the severity of the condition and the response of the patient. Pilocarpine hydrochloride is also indicated to counter the effects of cycloplegics and mydriatics following surgery or ophthalmoscopic examination.

How To Use:
To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the dropper to any surface or let it touch your eye. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before replacing your contact lenses. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch. Let go of the eyelid and gently close your eyes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed or if your dose is for more than 1 drop. Remove extra solution around the eye with a tissue and wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. Do not rinse the dropper.

Replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before using the other medication. Use eye drops before ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. If your doctor has prescribed this medication to treat glaucoma or high pressure in the eyes, use it regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Most people with glaucoma or high pressure in the eyes do not have any symptoms. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

Side Effects:
Temporary irritation/burning/stinging of the eye, temporary blurred vision, poor vision in dim light, headache, or brow ache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor.