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Pilocarpine ophthalmic

Generic name: pilocarpine ophthalmic [ PYE-loe-KAR-peen-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand names: Isopto Carpine, Pilocar, Vuity, Adsorbocarpine, Pilagan with C Cap, ... show all 16 brands
Dosage form: ophthalmic solution (1.25%; 1%; 2%; 4%)
Drug class: Ophthalmic glaucoma agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 20, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is pilocarpine ophthalmic?

Pilocarpine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat glaucoma or ocular hypertension (high pressure inside the eye).

Pilocarpine ophthalmic is also used to treat miosis.

Pilocarpine ophthalmic is used in the prevention of high intraocular pressure after laser surgery.

Vuity is used in adults to treat a condition that reduces the eyes' ability to focus on near objects (presbyopia).

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

Pilocarpine 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.

Seek medical attention right away if you have sudden onset of vision loss.

Pilocarpine ophthalmic may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of pilocarpine ophthalmic may include:

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.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

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

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

It is not known if pilocarpine ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using pilocarpine ophthalmic.

How should I use pilocarpine ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

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.

Use only the prescribed number of drops.

Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops.

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 10 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Call your pharmacist if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors or has particles in it.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next 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.

Overdose symptoms may include sweating, nausea, tremors, slow heart rate, increased salivation, or feeling like you might pass out.

What should I avoid while using pilocarpine ophthalmic?

Avoid using any other eye medications your doctor has not prescribed.

pilocarpine ophthalmic may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving, especially at night or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.

What other drugs will affect pilocarpine 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.