Alphagan Z Eye Drop 5 Ml

ALPHAGAN Z EYE DROP 5 ML

ALPHAGAN Z EYE DROP is an ophthalmic solution manufactured by Allergan India Pvt. Ltd., primarily used for managing elevated intraocular pressure.

Composition

ALPHAGAN Z EYE DROP contains Brimonidine Tartrate (0.1% w/v) as the active ingredient and Stabilized Oxychloro Complex (0.005% w/v) as a preservative. Brimonidine Tartrate functions as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, which works to reduce the production of aqueous humor (fluid in the eye) and enhance its outflow, thereby lowering intraocular pressure.

Uses

This medicine is prescribed for the management of:

• Open-angle glaucoma: A condition characterized by increased pressure in the eye that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss.
• Ocular hypertension: A state where eye pressure is higher than normal, without immediate damage to vision, but increases the risk of developing glaucoma. It also plays a role in preventing or slowing the progression of glaucoma and helps preserve vision.

Dosage and Administration

The typical dosage is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily, approximately 8 hours apart, or as directed by a healthcare professional.

• Always wash hands thoroughly before applying the drops.
• Tilt the head back slightly, pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and instil the drop.
• Close the eye and gently press the inner corner (near the nose) for about one minute to prevent the liquid from draining into the tear duct.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye, eyelids, or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• If using other ophthalmic medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applications.
• If wearing soft contact lenses, remove them before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Redness, itching, burning, or stinging sensation in the eyes
• Foreign body sensation or eye discomfort
• Blurred vision, drowsiness, or headache
• Eye dryness or oral dryness
• Fatigue or allergic conjunctivitis

Serious (less common) side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions in the eyes, eyelid inflammation, or corneal erosion
• Visual disturbances
• Dizziness, extreme tiredness, or very low blood pressure Consult your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if allergic to brimonidine or any other ingredients in the formulation.
• Children: Not recommended for children under 2 years of age due to potential for serious side effects like slow heartbeat and breathing problems. Caution is advised for children over 2 years, particularly those weighing less than 20 kg, under close medical supervision.
• Drug Interactions: Contraindicated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and certain antidepressant medications (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, mianserin). Exercise caution when used with other medications for high blood pressure or systemic beta-blockers.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with severe cardiovascular disease, liver or kidney problems, depression, low blood pressure, or circulation issues like Raynaud's disease.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor. Use only if recommended after assessing the need and risk.
• Driving and Machinery: May cause blurred vision, drowsiness, or fatigue. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until vision is clear and alertness returns.

Storage

Store the medicine below 30°C. Some sources suggest below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach and sight of children. Discard any remaining solution four weeks after opening the bottle to avoid contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions about ALPHAGAN Z EYE DROP 5 ML

What is ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop used for?

ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop is primarily used to manage open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension in adults. These conditions involve increased pressure inside the eye, which can lead to optic nerve damage and potential vision loss if not treated. The eye drop helps to prevent or slow down the progression of glaucoma and preserve vision by reducing this intraocular pressure.

How does ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop work?

ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop contains brimonidine tartrate, an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. It works by decreasing the production of aqueous humor, the fluid inside the eye, and by increasing its outflow. This dual action helps to lower the elevated pressure within the eye. The solution also includes Stabilized Oxychloro Complex, which acts as a preservative.

What is the usual dosage for ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop?

The typical recommended dosage for adults is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times a day, with doses spaced approximately 8 hours apart. It is important to follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding dosage and duration of use.

What are the possible side effects of ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop?

Common side effects can include redness, itching, burning or stinging sensation, and a feeling of a foreign body in the eye. Other possible side effects include blurred vision, dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, and allergic conjunctivitis. Most side effects are temporary and usually resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. If any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

Is ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Caution is advised when using ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop during pregnancy. There is limited information on its effects in pregnant women, and it should only be used if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. It is recommended to consult your doctor. It may also be advisable to discontinue use before labor.

Breastfeeding: ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop is generally not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, such as central nervous system depression and apnea, although it is not definitively known if brimonidine tartrate is excreted in human milk.

Can ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop be taken with other medications?

Yes, but it's important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including other eye drops. If you are using more than one topical ophthalmic medicine, you should wait at least 5 minutes between applying each different eye drop to prevent dilution or interaction.

ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop is contraindicated if you are taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or certain antidepressant medications (such as tricyclic antidepressants or mianserin). Caution is also advised when used with other alpha-2 agonists, beta-blockers, antihypertensives, and cardiac glycosides due to the possibility of additive systemic effects like drowsiness or low blood pressure. Alcohol consumption may also increase dizziness or sleepiness, so it should be avoided or used with caution.

What precautions should be taken when using ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop?

Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the eye drops. To prevent contamination, do not touch the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before instilling the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.

This medication may cause temporary blurred vision, drowsiness, or fatigue, so it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision is clear and you feel alert. Use with caution if you have severe cardiovascular disease, liver or kidney problems, depression, or certain circulatory conditions. ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop is not recommended for children under 2 years of age and should be used with caution and close monitoring in children aged 2 years and above, especially those weighing 20 kg or less, due to the risk of somnolence.

What happens if a dose of ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop is missed?

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop be stored?

Store ALPHAGAN Z Eye Drop below 25°C or 30°C and do not freeze it. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. It is important to discard any remaining solution four weeks after opening the bottle to avoid contamination.