Prefrin Side Effects

Generic name: phenylephrine ophthalmic

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 15, 2023.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Prefrin Side Effects associated with phenylephrine ophthalmic. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Prefrin.

Applies to phenylephrine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Common side effects of Prefrin

Some side effects of phenylephrine ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common with 2.5 or 10% solution

• burning or stinging of eyes
• headache or browache
• sensitivity of eyes to light
• watering of eyes

Less common

• eye irritation not present before use of this medicine

Serious side effects of Prefrin

Along with its needed effects, phenylephrine ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Prefrin) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking phenylephrine ophthalmic:

Symptoms of too much medicine being absorbed into the body

- Less common with 10% solution; rare with 2.5% or weaker solution

• Dizziness
• fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
• increased sweating
• increase in blood pressure
• paleness
• trembling

For healthcare professionals

Applies to phenylephrine ophthalmic: intraocular solution, ophthalmic solution.

General

The more commonly reported adverse reactions have included eye pain and stinging on instillation, temporary blurred vision and photophobia.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Ventricular arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, hypertension, syncope, tachycardia, arrhythmia, palpitations, extrasystoles, reflex bradycardia, coronary artery spasm

There have been reports of serious cardiovascular reactions including ventricular arrhythmias and myocardial infarctions. Fatalities have been reported. Significant blood pressure elevations have been reported with recommended doses of 10% ophthalmic solution.

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Eye pain and stinging on instillation, temporary blurred vision, photophobia, conjunctival allergy, reactive hyperemia, transient punctuate keratitis, lacrimation, corneal edema, pigmented aqueous floaters, rebound conjunctival vasoconstriction, rebound miosis, periorbital pallor

Periorbital pallor has been reported in preterm patients.

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Blanching of skin, increased perspiration

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Subarachnoid hemorrhage, headache, tremor or trembling, aneurisms

Further information

Prefrin side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer