Apraclonidine (Into the eye)

Introduction:

Apraclonidine (a-pra-KLON-i-deen)

Treats or prevents the build-up of fluid inside the eye (intraocular pressure) before and after laser eye surgery to treat glaucoma or cataracts.

Brand Name(s):

Iopidine

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to apraclonidine or clonidine (Catapres®). You should not use this medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate® within the past 14 days.

How to Use This Medicine:

Solution

  • You will receive this medicine as an eyedrop 1 hour before, and just after your eye surgery. The medicine will be put only in the eye or eyes being treated with surgery.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have high blood pressure or heart disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Eye burning, itching, or discomfort.
  • Feeling very cold or sleepy, with shallow breathing.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Redness of the white of your eyes.
  • Slow, pounding, or uneven heartbeat.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Blurred vision.
  • Dry mouth, unusual taste in your mouth.
  • Feeling like there is something in your eye.
  • Mild itching of your skin.
  • Redness, swelling, or whitening of your eyelids.
  • Runny or stuffy nose.
  • Stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting.
  • Sweating of your palms.
  • Trouble sleeping, unusual dreams.
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