Pilocarpine 2%

Pilocarpine 2% — Uses and Benefits

Pilocarpine 2% eye drops are prescribed for conditions related to increased eye pressure and pupil size control.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of open-angle glaucoma
• Managing acute angle-closure glaucoma before surgery
• Constricting the pupil after eye examinations that used dilating drops
• Used before or after certain laser or surgical eye procedures as directed by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It stimulates receptors in the eye muscles causing the pupil to constrict (miosis)
• This constriction opens the drainage channel of the eye, allowing fluid to flow out more easily
• The improved drainage lowers the pressure inside the eye

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for treating eye infections
• It is not a painkiller for eye pain or injury
• It is not used to dilate the pupil
• It is not used for routine dryness or redness of the eyes

How to Use Pilocarpine 2%

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Wash your hands before using the eye drop
• Tilt your head back and gently pull down the lower eyelid to form a pocket
• Instill the prescribed number of drops into the eye without touching the tip of the dropper to the eye or surrounding skin
• Close your eyes gently for a minute or two and press lightly at the inner corner of the eye to prevent the medicine from draining into the nose
• Use exactly as advised by your doctor regarding frequency and duration
• Wait several minutes between this and any other eye drop if more than one is prescribed

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not apply double drops to make up for a missed dose

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Do not use after the expiry date or after the bottle has been open longer than advised
• Keep out of reach of children

Pilocarpine 2% — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Temporary blurred vision
• Eye or brow ache
• Stinging or burning sensation after applying drops
• Increased sensitivity to light

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Watering of eyes
• Headache
• Difficulty seeing in dim light
• Twitching of eyelid muscles

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden severe eye pain or redness
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of eyelids, rash, or difficulty breathing
• Sudden vision loss or significant vision changes
• Irregular heartbeat, chest tightness, or breathing difficulty (rare, from absorption into the body)
• Excessive sweating, salivation, or stomach cramps

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Pilocarpine 2% — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under the supervision of an eye specialist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to pilocarpine or any ingredient in the drops
• Have certain types of eye inflammation such as acute iritis, unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Have a condition where pupil constriction could be harmful, as judged by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have asthma or other breathing problems
• Have a history of heart disease, low or high blood pressure
• Have retinal disease or a history of retinal detachment
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Wear contact lenses
• Are using any other eye drops or eye medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other glaucoma eye drops (may increase pressure-lowering effect, use only as directed)
• Medicines affecting the nervous system such as certain antihistamines or antidepressants
• Beta-blocker eye drops or tablets, which may add to effects on heart rate
• Always inform your doctor about all eye drops, tablets, and supplements you are using

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after using this eye drop?

Avoid driving or doing tasks needing clear vision until your vision returns to normal, especially in low light.

How long does it take to work?

It usually starts lowering eye pressure within a short time, but effects and duration vary; follow your doctor's schedule.

Can I use it with contact lenses?

• Remove contact lenses before applying the drops and wait as advised by your doctor before reinserting them.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.