Naphazoline ophthalmic

Generic name: naphazoline ophthalmic [ naf-AZ-oh-leen-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand names: Advanced Eye Relief Maximum Redness, Clear Eyes, Redness Relief Eye Drops, AK-Con, Albalon, ... show all 18 brands Allersol, Naphcon, Naphcon Forte, Vasocon, Nafazair, Estivin II, Degest 2, VasoClear, Allerest Eye Drops, Ocu-Zoline, Clear Eyes + Redness Relief, Clear Eyes Maximum Redness Relief, Clear Eyes Cooling Comfort
Dosage forms: ophthalmic gel forming solution (0.012%), ophthalmic solution (0.012% with glycerin; 0.03%; 0.03% with glycerin)
Drug class: Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 30, 2025. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is naphazoline ophthalmic?

Naphazoline ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used for the temporary relief and protection from burning and irritation caused by dry eyes.

Naphazoline ophthalmic is also used to relieve eye redness caused by minor irritations.

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

Naphazoline ophthalmic side effects

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

Naphazoline ophthalmic may cause serious side effects. Stop using naphazoline ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have:

• ongoing eye redness or irritation;

• eye pain; or

• vision changes.

Common side effects of naphazoline ophthalmic may include:

• dilated pupils.

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.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Tell your healthcare provider if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use naphazoline ophthalmic if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if naphazoline ophthalmic is safe to use if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use naphazoline ophthalmic?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Use only the number of drops recommended.

Do not use this medicine more often than directed. Overuse of this medicine may make eye redness worse.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

Shake the eye drops before each use.

To apply the eye drops: Pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops. Replace cap after each use.

Do not touch the dropper tip or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye and lead to serious vision problems.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Do not use the eye drops if the medicine looks cloudy or has changed colors.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 72 hours, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature, in an upright position and tightly closed. Do not freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Naphazoline ophthalmic is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while using naphazoline ophthalmic?

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect naphazoline ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

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

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