Alphagan Eye Drops are made up of brimonidine, which is an alpha agonist drug. This medication usually comes in a white and green box with an aqua and white bottle inside. This product can be purchased as its brand name Alphagan or as its generic alternative, brimonidine, in 0.20% strength.

This medication is used for both open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Glaucoma is an eye disorder caused by fluid buildup in the eye, which results in vision loss and extra pressure on your optic nerves, causing them damage. Ocular hypertension causes glaucoma as it causes the pressure in your eyes to be higher than normal, and fluid cannot drain.

Brimonidine works by reducing the amount of fluid created in the eye while helping the flow of fluid.

Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed to you specifically and do not share this medication with others.

• Tilt your head back
• Look upward
• Form a pouch by pull down on your lower eye lid
• Hold the dropper above eye; apply 1 drop into the pouch
• Look down and gently close your eyes for 1 – 2 minutes
• Store at 2º - 25º C (36º - 77º F)

You should not use Alphagan P if you are allergic to brimonidine, tell your doctor about all allergies before proceeding.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

heart problems, circulation problems; coronary artery disease (clogged arteries); low blood pressure; depression; or Raynaud's syndrome, Buerger disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant or currently breast-feeding.

Children may be more prone to side effects of this medication.

Side effects include, but are not limited to;

More common

• Burning, stinging, or tearing of the eye
• drowsiness or tiredness
• dryness of the mouth

Less common

• Anxiety
• bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste
• belching
• body aches or pain

What are some side effects I should mention to my doctor if I experience them?

Blurred or loss of vision burning, dry, or itching eyes discharge or excessive tearing disturbed color perception double vision halos around lights

What is the average dose for an adult with glaucoma? With Ocular hypertension?

Glaucoma                Ocular hypertension

1 drop                      1 drop

3 times a day           3 times a day

8 hours apart            8 hours apart

Any advice for first time users?

Pressure should be applied to the eye after administration.

This drug can cause blurry or abnormal vision.

Do not mix with other eye solutions.