Generic name: epinephrine ophthalmic [ ep-ih-NEF-rin ]
Brand names: Eppy/N, Glaucon, Epifrin, Epinal
Drug class: Ophthalmic glaucoma agents

What is epinephrine ophthalmic?

Epinephrine ophthalmic (for the eyes) reduces the amount of fluid in the eye, which decreases pressure inside the eye.

Epinephrine ophthalmic is used to treat glaucoma and is also used during eye surgery.

Epinephrine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about epinephrine ophthalmic?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to epinephrine, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

Before using epinephrine ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, heart disease, circulation problems, high blood pressure, a thyroid disorder, or a history of cataract surgery.

Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Epinephrine ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using epinephrine ophthalmic before putting your contact lenses in.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using epinephrine ophthalmic?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to epinephrine, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

To make sure you can safely take epinephrine ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• asthma;

• diabetes;

• heart disease, blood circulation problems;

• high blood pressure;

• a thyroid disorder; or

• a history of cataract surgery.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether epinephrine ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether epinephrine ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use epinephrine ophthalmic?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.

• Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

• Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• If you use more than one drop in the same eye, wait about 5 minutes before putting in the next drop.

• Also wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops that your doctor has prescribed.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using epinephrine ophthalmic?

This medication may cause blurred vision or impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.

Avoid using any eye medications your doctor has not prescribed.

Epinephrine ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe stinging or burning in your eyes;

• fast, pounding, or uneven heart rate;

• sweating, shaking, feeling like you might pass out; or

• high blood pressure (severe headache, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath).

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild burning, stinging, or itching of your eyes;

• blurred vision;

• watery eyes;

• eye pain;

• headache; or

• pain behind your eyebrows.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Epinephrine ophthalmic dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Glaucoma (Open Angle):

Initial dose: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 1 to 2 times daily.
Maintenance dose: Individualize based on response.

What other drugs will affect epinephrine ophthalmic?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on epinephrine used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medicines you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Related/similar drugs

latanoprost ophthalmic, brimonidine ophthalmic, timolol ophthalmic, pilocarpine ophthalmic, Lumigan, dorzolamide ophthalmic

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 7.01. Revision Date: 2011-04-18, 11:24:08 AM.