Alphagan P 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 P or as its generic alternative, brimonidine, in 0.15% 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 pulling down on your lower eye lid
• Hold 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.

Tell your doctor at once if you have:

eye pain or increased watering; vision changes; or severe swelling, redness, burning, or discomfort in or around your eye.

Common side effects may include:

mild itching, redness, burning, or other irritation of your eyes; dry mouth, blurred vision; or drowsiness, tiredness.

What is the difference between Alphagan and Alphagan P?

The strengths are a bit different (by .5%) and the preservatives are different. Alphagan P has purite, where as Alphagan contains benzalkonium chloride.

How long does it take to feel relief?

The peak effect occurs around 2 hours after dosing.

I’m pregnant… can I use my Alphagan P eye drops?

Only use this medication if the benefits outweigh the risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor to learn more.

Drug interactions?

The more major ones include:

• Metoprolol Succinate ER (metoprolol)
• Metoprolol Tartrate (metoprolol)
• Lasix (furosemide)
• Cosopt (dorzolamide/timolol ophthalmic)