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Pilocarpine |
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What is Pilocarpine and why is it prescribed? Pilocarpine causes constriction of the pupils and reduces pressure within the eye. Pilocarpine is used to treat the increased pressure of open-angle glaucoma and to lower eye pressure before surgery for acute angle-closure glaucoma. Pilocarpine can be used alone or in combination with other medications. Glaucoma is characterized by increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve and cause loss of vision. There is no cure for glaucoma. Pilocarpine and similar drugs can keep ocular pressure under control, but only as long as you take them. Be sure to take Pilocarpine regularly. How should you take Pilocarpine? Follow your doctors directions for taking Pilocarpine. Follow these steps to administer Pilocarpine: (1) Wash your hands thoroughly, (2) Gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pocket next to your eye, (3) Brace the eyedrop bottle on the bridge of your nose or your forehead, (4) Tilt your head back and squeeze the medication into your eye, (5) Close your eyes gently. Keep them closed for 1 to 2 minutes, (6) Do not rinse the dropper, and (7) Wait for 5 to 10 minutes before using a second eye medication. To avoid contaminating the dropper and solution, do not touch the eyelids or surrounding areas with the tip of the dropper. Do not use if the solution is discolored. If you miss a dose apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Pilocarpine away from heat and light. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when it is not being used. Are there any Pilocarpine side effects? Pilocarpine side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Pilocarpine side effects may include cloudy vision, detached retina, headache over your eye, nearsightedness, reduced vision in poor light, spasms of the eyelids, and tearing eyes. Rare Pilocarpine side effects may include breathing difficulty, diarrhea, excessive salivation, fluid in lungs, high blood pressure, nausea, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and vomiting. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Pilocarpine? If Pilocarpine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. No interactions have been reported. Are there any special warnings about Pilocarpine? Pilocarpine may make it difficult for you to see in the dark. Be careful driving at night, or doing any hazardous activity in dim light. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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