Alphagan P

Generic name: Brimonidine tartrate

What is Alphagan P?

Alphagan P lowers high pressure in the eye, a problem typically caused by the condition known as open-angle glaucoma. Alphagan P works in two ways: it reduces production of the liquid that fills the eyeball, and it promotes drainage of this liquid. This drug is free of the preservative benzalkonium chloride.

What is the most important information I should know about Alphagan P?

Alphagan P may have a slight effect on blood pressure. If you have severe heart disease, make sure the doctor is aware of it. Caution is warranted.

Who should not take Alphagan P?

You'll need to avoid Alphagan P if it gives you an allergic reaction, or if you're taking a medication classified as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Alphagan P?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Alphagan P. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart disease, circulation problems, Raynaud's disease, thromboangiitis obliterans, low blood pressure, depression, and liver or kidney problems.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults and children 2 years and older: The usual dose is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 3 times daily, approximately 8 hours apart.

How should I take Alphagan P?

Alphagan P is administered with an eyedropper. If you are using other eyedrops or ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between doses of each product.

What should I avoid while taking Alphagan P?

Avoid missing regular eye checkups. Because the effect of Alphagan P may diminish over time, the doctor should check your eye pressure periodically.

Alphagan P makes some people drowsy. Do not engage in hazardous activities such as driving until you know how this drug affects you.

Alphagan P has not been studied in children less than 2 years old and should be avoided in this age group.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Alphagan P?

If Alphagan P is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Alphagan P with the following: alcohol, antidepressants, barbiturates such as phenobarbital, sleep medications, narcotic painkillers, blood pressure medications, and medications used to treat heart problems such as angina or heart failure.

Alphagan P should never be combined with MAOIs, such as the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine

What are the possible side effects of Alphagan P?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Alphagan P.

Side effects may include: eye redness or irritation, inflamed or swollen eyelids, itchy eyes, burning sensation, conjunctival folliculosis, high blood pressure, allergic reaction, oral dryness, visual disturbance

Can I receive Alphagan P if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Although there is no evidence that Alphagan P can cause harm, the effects of the drug during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Alphagan P appears in breast milk. If you are nursing, its use is not recommended.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Alphagan P?

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

How should I store Alphagan P?

Store at room temperature.