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Appendix

General Info: See Medication Administration Techniques for administration techniques for ophthalmic agents.

Consult health care professional regarding:

  • Concurrent use of contact lenses (medication or additives may be absorbed by the lens).
  • Concurrent administration of other ophthalmic agents (order and spacing may be important).

ADRs = adverse reactions.

Anesthetics

Uses: Provide brief local anesthesia to allow measurement of intraocular pressure, removal of foreign bodies, or other superficial procedures.

CAUTIONS: Repeated use may result in risk of CNS and cardiovascular toxicity; cross-sensitivity with some local anesthetics may occur.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
chlorprocaineIheezoAdults: 3 drops of 3% gel (single dose).
  • ADRs: conjunctival hyperemia, mydriasis, irritation
lidocaineAktenAdults and children: 2 drops of 3.5% gel (single dose).
  • Does not interact with ophthalmic cholinesterase inhibitors
  • ADRs: ophthalmic: irritation; systemic: irregular heartbeat, CNS depression
proparacaineAlcaineAdults and children: 1–2 drops of 0.5% solution (single dose).
  • Does not interact with ophthalmic cholinesterase inhibitors
  • ADRs: ophthalmic: irritation; systemic: irregular heartbeat, CNS depression
tetracaineAltacaineAdults: 1–2 drops of 0.5% solution (single dose).
  • May interact with ophthalmic cholinesterase inhibitors, resulting in duration of action and risk of toxicity
  • ADRs: ophthalmic: irritation; systemic: irregular heartbeat, CNS depression

Antihistamines

Uses: Various forms of allergic conjunctivitis.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
alcaftadineLastacaft [OTC]Adults and children 2 yr: 1 drop of 0.25% solution once daily.
  • ADRs: transient burning/stinging, headache
azelastineAdults and children 3 yr: 1 drop of 0.05% solution twice daily.
  • ADRs: transient burning/stinging, headache, bitter taste
bepotastineBepreveAdults and children 2 yr: 1 drop of 1.5% solution twice daily.
  • ADRs: taste disturbance, headache, local irritation
cetirizineZerviateAdults and children 2 yr: 1 drop of 0.24% solution twice daily (given 8 hr apart).
  • ADRs: transient burning/stinging, visual acuity
epinastineAdults and children 2 yr: 1 drop of 0.05% solution twice daily.
  • ADRs: headache, local irritation
ketotifenAcuvue TheravisionAlaway [OTC]ZaditorAdults and children 3 yr: 1 drop of 0.025% solution twice daily (given 8–12 hr apart).
Adults and children 11 yr: Drug-eluting contact lens: 1 lens in each eye once daily.
  • ADRs: local irritation, eye pain (contact lens)
olopatadinePataday [OTC]Adults and children 2 yr:0.1% solution: 1 drop twice daily (given 6–8 hr apart); 0.2% solution: 1 drop once daily; 0.7% solution: 1 drop once daily.
  • ADRs: headache, conjunctival irritation

Antibacterials

Uses: Localized superficial ophthalmic infections (e.g., bacterial conjunctivitis).

CAUTIONS: Small amounts may be absorbed and result in hypersensitivity reactions.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
azithromycinAzaSiteAdults and children 1 yr: 1 drop of 1% solution twice daily (given 8–12 hr apart) for 2 days, then once daily for 5 more days.
  • When used to treat ocular chlamydial infections, concurrent systemic therapy is required
  • ADRs: eye irritation
bacitracinAdults and children:¼½-in. ointment strip every 3–4 hr for acute infections or 2–3 times daily for mild to moderate infections.
  • ADRs: eye irritation
besifloxacinBesivanceAdults and children 1 yr: 1 drop of 0.6% suspension 3 times daily (given 4–12 hr apart) for 7 days.
  • ADRs: headache, eye irritation
ciprofloxacinCiloxanAdults and children of all ages (solution) or 2 yr (ointment):Bacterial conjunctivitis: Solution: 1–2 drops of 0.3% solution every 2 hr while awake for 2 days, then every 4 hr while awake for 5 more days; Ointment: ½-in. strip 3 times daily for 2 days, then twice daily for 5 more days; Corneal ulcers: Solution: 2 drops of 0.3% solution every 15 min for 6 hr, then every 30 min while awake for rest of day, then every hr while awake for next 24 hr, then every 4 hr while awake for next 12 days or longer if re-epithelialization does not occur.
  • May cause harmless white crystalline precipitate that resolves over time
  • ADRs: altered taste, systemic allergic reactions, photophobia, discomfort
erythromycinAdults and children:Treatment of infections: ½-in. ointment strip 2–6 times daily.

Infants:Prophylaxis of ophthalmia neonatorum: ½-in. ointment strip in each eye as a single dose.

  • ADRs: irritation
gatifloxacinZymaxidAdults and children 1 yr: 1 drop of 0.5% solution every 2 hr while awake (up to 8 times/day) for 1 day, then 2–4 times daily while awake for 6 more days.
  • ADRs: irritation, headache, visual acuity, taste disturbance
gentamicinAdults and children:Solution: 1–2 drops of 0.3% solution every 2–4 hr.
  • ADRs: irritation, burning, stinging, blurred vision (ointment)
levofloxacinAdults and children 6 yr: 1–2 drops of 0.5% solution every 2 hr while awake for 2 days (up to 8 times/day); then every 4 hr while awake for 5 more days (up to 4 times/day).
  • ADRs: altered taste, systemic allergic reactions, photophobia
moxifloxacinVigamoxAdults and children: 1 drop of 0.5% solution 3 times daily for 7 days.
  • ADRs: irritation, visual acuity
ofloxacinOcufloxAdults and children 1 yr:Bacterial conjunctivitis: 1–2 drops of 0.3% solution every 2–4 hr while awake for 2 days, then 4 times daily for 5 more days; Corneal ulcer: 1–2 drops of 0.3% solution every 30 min while awake and every 4–6 hr while sleeping for 2 days, then every hr while awake for 4–6 more days, then 4 times daily until cured.
  • ADRs: altered taste, systemic allergic reactions, photophobia
sulfacetamideAdults and children 2 mo:Solution: 1–2 drops of 10% solution every 2–3 hr while awake (less frequently at night) for 7–10 days; Ointment: ½-in. strip every 3–4 hr and at bedtime for 7–10 days.
  • Cross-sensitivity with other sulfonamides (including thiazides) may occur
  • ADRs: local irritation
tobramycinTobrexAdults and children 2 mo:Solution: 1–2 drops of 0.3% solution every 2–4 hr depending on severity of infection; Ointment: ½-in. strip every 8–12 hr.
  • Ointment may retard corneal wound healing
  • ADRs: irritation, burning, stinging, blurred vision (ointment)

Antifungal

Uses: Fungal blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and keratitis.

CAUTIONS: Small amounts may be absorbed and result in hypersensitivity reactions.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
natamycinNatacynAdults:Fungal keratitis: 1 drop of 5% suspension every 1–2 hr for 3–4 days, then 6–8 times/day for 2–3 wk; Fungal blepharitis or conjunctivitis: 1 drop of 5% suspension every 4–6 hr for 2–3 wk.
  • ADRs: irritation, swelling

Antiparasitic

Uses: Demodex blepharitis.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
lotilanerXdemvyAdults: 1 drop of 0.25% solution every 12 hr for 6 wk.
  • ADRs: burning, stinging

Antivirals

Uses: Herpetic conjunctivitis and keratitis.

CAUTIONS: Small amounts may be absorbed and result in hypersensitivity reactions.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
ganciclovirZirganAdults and children 2 yr: 1 drop of 0.15% gel 5 times daily (every 3 hr while awake) until corneal ulcer heals, then 3 times daily for 7 days.
  • ADRs: blurred vision, irritation, keratopathy
trifluridineAdults and children 6 yr: 1 drop of 1% solution every 2 hr while awake (up to 9 drops/day) until re-epithelialization occurs, then every 4 hr while awake for 7 more days (not to exceed 21 days).
  • ADRs: burning, stinging, keratopathy

Artificial Tears/Ocular Lubricants (sterile buffered isotonic solutions/ointments)

Uses: Artificial tears: keep the eyes moist with isotonic solutions and wetting agents in the management of dry eyes due to lack of tears; also provide lubrication for artificial eyes. Ocular lubricants: provide lubrication and protection in a variety of conditions including exposure keratitis, corneal sensitivity, corneal erosions, keratitis sicca, during/following ocular surgery or removal of a foreign body.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
Artificial tearsBion TearsGenteal TearsHypoTearsLiquiTearsMurine TearsNature's TearsSootheSystaneTeardropsTears NaturaleViva-DropsAdults and children:Artificial tears: Solution: 1–2 drops 3–4 times daily; Insert: 1 insert 1–2 times daily; Ocular lubricants: small amount instilled into conjunctiva several times daily.
  • May alter effects of other concurrently administered ophthalmic medications
  • ADRs: photophobia, lid edema stinging (insert only), transient blurred vision, eye discomfort

Beta Blockers

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma and other forms of ocular hypertension ( formation of aqueous humor).

CAUTIONS: Systemic absorption is minimal but may occur. Systemic absorption may result in additive adverse cardiovascular effects (bradycardia, hypotension), especially when used with other cardiovascular agents (antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics). Other systemic adverse reactions may occur, including bronchospasm or delirium (geriatric patients). Concurrent use with ophthalmic epinephrine may effectiveness.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
betaxololBetoptic SAdults and children: 1 drop of 0.25% suspension or solution twice daily.
  • ADRs: conjunctivitis, visual acuity, ocular burning, rash (may be less likely than others to cause bronchospasm if systemically absorbed)
carteololAdults: 1 drop of 1% solution twice daily.
  • ADRs: ocular burning, visual acuity
levobunololAdults: 1–2 drops of 0.5% solution once daily.
  • ADRs: conjunctivitis, visual acuity, ocular burning, rash
timololBetimolIstalolTimopticTimoptic OcudoseTimoptic-XEAdults:Solution: 1 drop of 0.25–0.5% solution 1–2 times daily; Gel-forming solution: 1 drop of 0.25–0.5% solution once daily.
Children:Solution: 1 drop of 0.25–0.5% solution twice daily; Gel-forming solution: 1 drop of 0.25–0.5% solution once daily.
  • ADRs: conjunctivitis, visual acuity, ocular burning, rash

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma and other forms of ocular hypertension ( formation of aqueous humor).

CAUTIONS: May exacerbate kidney stones; should not be used in patients with CCr 30 mL/min; may have cross-sensitivity with sulfonamides.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
brinzolamideAzoptAdults: 1 drop of 1% suspension 3 times daily.
  • ADRs: burning, stinging, unusual taste
dorzolamideAdults and children: 1 drop of 2% solution 3 times daily.
  • ADRs: bitter taste, ocular irritation, or allergy

Cholinergics (direct-acting)

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma (facilitates the outflow of aqueous humor); also used to facilitate miosis after ophthalmic surgery or before examination (to counteract mydriatics). Pilocarpine (Vuity) used in treatment of presbyopia.

CAUTIONS: Conditions in which pupillary constriction occurs should be avoided. If significant systemic absorption occurs, bronchospasm, sweating, and urination and salivation may occur.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
acetylcholineMiochol-EAdults: 0.5–2 mL instilled into anterior chamber before or after securing one or more sutures.
  • ADRs: corneal edema, corneal clouding
carbacholMiostatAdults: 0.5 mL instilled into anterior chamber before or after securing sutures.
  • ADRs: blurred vision, altered vision, stinging, eye pain
pilocarpineQlosiVuityAdults:Presbyopia: Vuity: 1 drop of 1.25% solution once daily. An additional drop (in each eye) may be administered 3–6 hr after 1st dose; Qlosi: 1 drop of 0.4% solution once daily, or as needed, up to twice daily. An additional drop (in each eye) may be administered 2–3 hr after 1st dose.
Adults and children 2 yr:Glaucoma: 1 drop of 1–4% solution up to 4 times daily; Counteracting mydriatic sympathomimetics: 1 drop of 1–4% solution (may be repeated prior to surgery).
Children <2 yr:Glaucoma: 1 drop of 1% solution 3 times daily.
  • ADRs: blurred vision, altered vision, stinging, eye pain, headache

Cholinergics (cholinesterase inhibitors)

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma not controlled with short-acting miotics or other agents; also used in varying doses for accommodative esotropia (diagnosis and treatment).

CAUTIONS: Enhances neuromuscular blockade from succinylcholine; intensifies the actions of cocaine and some other local anesthetics; additive toxicity with antimyasthenics, anticholinergics, and cholinesterase inhibitors (including some pesticides). Use cautiously in patients with history or risk of retinal detachment.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
echothiophatePhospholine IodideAdults: 1 drop of 0.125% solution 1–2 times daily.
  • Irreversible cholinesterase inhibitor
  • May cause hyperactivity in patients with Down syndrome
  • ADRs: blurred vision, change in vision, brow ache, miosis, eyelid twitching, watering eyes

Corticosteroids

Uses: Management of inflammatory eye conditions including allergic conjunctivitis, nonspecific superficial keratitis, anterior endogenous uveitis; management of infectious conjunctivitis (with anti-infectives); management of corneal injury; suppression of graft rejection following keratoplasty; management of postoperative inflammation; management of dry eye disease; management of macular edema.

CAUTIONS: Use cautiously in patients with infectious ocular processes (avoid in herpes simplex keratitis), especially fungal and viral ocular infections (may mask symptoms); diabetes, glaucoma, or epithelial compromise.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
dexamethasoneDextenzaDexycuMaxidexOzurdexAdults and children:Solution: 1–2 drops of 0.1% solution every hr during the day and every 2 hr during the night, gradually the dose to 1 drop every 4 hr, then to 3–4 times daily; Suspension: 1–2 drops of 0.1% suspension up to 4–6 times daily; Implant—one 0.7-mg implant injected into affected eye; Insert: one 0.4-mg insert (releases 0.4 mg dose for up to 30 days); Suspension for injection: 0.005 mL of 9% suspension injected into posterior chamber at end of ocular surgery.
  • As condition improves, frequency of administration of ophthalmic solution/suspension
  • ADRs: corneal thinning, intraocular pressure, irritation
difluprednateDurezolAdults and children:Postoperative inflammation: 1 drop of 0.05% emulsion 4 times daily beginning 24 hr after surgery and continued for 2 wk, then 2 times daily for 1 wk, then taper; Uveitis: 1 drop of 0.05% emulsion 4 times daily for 14 days, then taper.
  • As condition improves, frequency of administration
  • ADRs: blepharitis, photophobia, visual acuity
fluorometholoneFlarexFMLFML ForteAdults and children 2 yr:Suspension: 1–2 drops of 0.1% suspension 4 times daily (up to 2 drops every 2 hr during initial 24–48 hr) or 1 drop of 0.25% suspension 2–4 times daily (up to 1 drop every 4 hr during initial 24–48 hr).
  • As condition improves, frequency of administration
  • ADRs: corneal thinning, intraocular pressure, irritation
loteprednolAlrexEysuvisInveltysLotemaxLotemax SMAdults:Allergic conjunctivitis: Alrex: 1 drop of 0.2% suspension 4 times daily; Dry eye disease: Eysuvis: 1–2 drops of 0.25% suspension 4 times daily for up to 2 wk; Inflammatory conditions: Lotemax: 1–2 drops of 0.5% suspension 4 times daily (up to 1 drop every hr may be used in first wk); Postoperative inflammation/pain: Lotemax gel/suspension: 1–2 drops of 0.5% gel/suspension 4 times daily beginning 24 hr after surgery and continued for 2 wk or 1 drop of 0.38% gel 3 times daily beginning 24 hr after surgery and continued for 2 wk; Lotemax ointment: ½-in. strip 4 times daily beginning 24 hr after surgery and continued for 2 wk; Inveltys suspension: 1–2 drops of 1% suspension 2 times daily beginning 24 hr after surgery and continued for 2 wk.
Children:Postoperative inflammation/pain: Lotemax gel: 1–2 drops of 0.5% gel 4 times daily beginning 24 hr after surgery and continued for 2 wk.
  • ADRs: corneal thinning, intraocular pressure, irritation
prednisolonePred FortePred MildAdults and children: 1–2 drops of 0.12–1% solution/suspension 2–4 times daily.
  • As condition improves, frequency of administration
  • ADRs: corneal thinning, intraocular pressure, irritation

Cycloplegic Mydriatics

Uses: Preparation for cycloplegic refraction; induction of mydriasis; management of uveitis (not tropicamide).

CAUTIONS: Use cautiously in patients with a history of glaucoma; systemic absorption may cause anticholinergic effects such as confusion, unusual behavior, flushing, hallucinations, slurred speech, drowsiness, swollen stomach (infants), tachycardia, or dry mouth.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
atropineIsopto AtropineAdults and children 3 mo:Cycloplegia/mydriasis: Solution: 1–2 drops of 1% solution 40 min before procedure; Ointment: 0.3–0.5 cm strip 1–2 times daily.
  • Effects on accommodation may last 6 days; mydriasis may last 12 days
  • ADRs: irritation, blurred vision, photophobia
cyclopentolateCyclogylAdults: 1–2 drops of 0.5–2% solution; may repeat in 5–10 min.

Children: 1 drop of 0.5–2% solution; may be followed 5–10 min later by 1 drop of 0.5–1% solution.

  • Peak of cycloplegia is within 25–75 min and lasts 6–24 hr
  • Peak of mydriasis is within 30–60 min and may last several days
  • 2% solution used for heavily pigmented iris
  • ADRs: irritation, blurred vision, photophobia
homatropineAdults:Cycloplegic refraction: 1–2 drops of 2–5% solution, may repeat in 5–10 min for 2 more doses; Uveitis: 1–2 drops of 2–5% solution 2–3 times daily (up to every 4 hr).

Children 3 mo:Cycloplegic refraction: 1–2 drops of 2% solution, may repeat in 10–15 min if needed; Uveitis: 1–2 drops of 2% solution 2–3 times daily (up to every 4 hr).

  • Cycloplegia and mydriasis may last for 24–72 hr
  • ADRs: irritation, blurred vision, photophobia
tropicamideMydriacylAdults and children: 1–2 drops of 0.5–1% solution.
  • Stronger solution/repeated dosing may be required in patients with dark irises
  • Peak effect occurs in 20–40 min
  • Cycloplegia lasts 2–6 hr; mydriasis lasts up to 7 hr
  • ADRs: irritation, blurred vision, photophobia

Immunomodulators

Uses: Management of keratoconjunctivitis sicca and vernal keratoconjunctivitis.

CAUTIONS: Tear production is not during concurrent use of ophthalmic NSAIDs or punctal plugs.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
cyclosporineCequaRestasisVerkaziaVevyeAdults and children 16 yr:Keratoconjunctivitis sicca: Restasis: 1 drop of 0.05% emulsion every 12 hr.
Adults:Keratoconjunctivitis sicca: Cequa: 1 drop of 0.09% solution every 12 hr; Vevye: 1 drop of 0.1% solution every 12 hr.
Adults and children 4 yr:Vernal keratoconjunctivitis: Verkazia: 1 drop of 0.1% emulsion 4 times daily until signs/symptoms resolve.
  • Emulsion should be inverted to obtain uniform opaque appearance prior to use.
  • ADRs: irritation, blurred vision, conjunctival hyperemia
lifitegrastXiidraAdults: 1 drop of 5% solution every 12 hr.
  • Emulsion should be inverted to obtain uniform opaque appearance prior to use.
  • ADRs: headache, irritation, blurred vision, metallic taste

Mast Cell Stabilizers

Uses: Management of vernal keratoconjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis.

CAUTIONS: Require several days of treatment before effects are seen.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
cromolynAdults and children 4 yr: 1–2 drops of 4% solution 4–6 times daily.
  • ADRs: irritation
lodoxamideAlomideAdults and children 2 yr: 1–2 drops of 0.1% solution 4 times daily for up to 3 mo.
  • ADRs: blurred vision, foreign body sensation, irritation
nedocromilAlocrilAdults and children 3 yr: 1–2 drops of 2% solution twice daily throughout period of exposure to allergen.
  • ADRs: headache, ocular burning, unpleasant taste, nasal congestion

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Uses: Management of pain/inflammation following surgery (bromfenac, diclofenac, ketorolac, nepafenac), allergic conjunctivitis (ketorolac), inhibition of perioperative miosis (flurbiprofen).

CAUTIONS: Cross-sensitivity with systemic NSAIDs may occur; concurrent use of anticoagulants, other NSAIDs, thrombolytics, some cephalosporins, and valproates may the risk of bleeding. May slow/delay healing. Avoid contact lens use.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
bromfenacBromsiteProlensaAdults:Generic: 1 drop of 0.09% solution once daily starting 1 day before surgery and continued on day of surgery and for 2 wk after surgery; Bromsite: 1 drop of 0.075% solution twice daily starting 1 day before surgery and continued on day of surgery and for 2 wk after surgery; Prolensa: 1 drop of 0.07% solution once daily starting 1 day before surgery and continued on day of surgery and for 2 wk after surgery.
  • Contains sulfites
  • ADRs: irritation, headache
diclofenacAdults:Cataract surgery: 1 drop of 0.1% solution 4 times daily starting 24 hr after surgery and for 2 wk after surgery; Corneal refractive surgery: 1–2 drops of 0.1% solution within hour before surgery, within 15 min after surgery, then continue 4 times daily for up to 3 days.
  • ADRs: irritation, allergic reactions
flurbiprofenAdults: 1 drop of 0.03% solution every 30 min, beginning 2 hr prior to surgery (4 drops total in each eye).
  • ADRs: irritation, allergic reactions
ketorolacAcularAcular LSAcuvailAdults and children 2 yr:Allergic conjunctivitis: Acular: 1 drop of 0.5% solution 4 times daily; Postoperative pain/inflammation: Acular: 1 drop of 0.5% solution 4 times daily starting 24 hr after cataract surgery and for 2 wk after surgery; Acular LS: 1 drop of 0.4% solution 4 times daily for up to 4 days after corneal refractive surgery; Acuvail: 1 drop of 0.45% solution twice daily starting 1 day before cataract surgery and continued for 2 wk after surgery.
  • ADRs: irritation, allergic reactions
nepafenacIlevroNevanacAdults and children 10 yr:Ilevro: 1 drop of 0.3% suspension once daily starting one day before cataract surgery and continued for 2 wk after surgery; instill 1 additional drop 30–120 min before surgery; Nevanac: 1 drop of 0.1% suspension 3 times daily starting one day before cataract surgery and continued for 2 wk after surgery.

Ocular Decongestants/Vasoconstrictors

Uses: ocular congestion due to irritation by vasoconstricting conjunctival blood vessels; stronger solutions have mydriatic effects. Treatment of acquired blepharoptosis (Upneeq).

CAUTIONS: Systemic absorption may result in adverse cardiovascular effects; excessive/prolonged use may produce rebound hyperemia; use caution in patients at risk for acute angle-closure glaucoma; cardiovascular effects may be exaggerated by MAO inhibitors and dose adjustment may be required within 21 days of MAO inhibitors; risk of arrhythmias with inhalation anesthetics.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
naphazolineAdults: 1–2 drops of 0.012% solution up to 4 times daily (for up to 3 days) or 1–2 drops of 0.1% solution every 3–4 hr as needed.
  • ADRs: ophthalmic-rebound hyperemia; systemic-dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating, weakness
oxymetazolineUpneeqAdults: 1 drop of 0.1% solution once daily.
  • ADRs: ophthalmic-rebound hyperemia; systemic-headache, insomnia, nervousness, tachycardia
phenylephrineAdults and children:Mydriasis: 1 drop of 2.5–10% solution, may repeat in 3–5 min as needed (max = 3 drops/eye).
  • ADRs: ophthalmic-blurred vision, irritation; systemic-dizziness, tachycardia, hypertension, paleness, sweating, trembling
tetrahydrozolineVisine [OTC]Adults: 1–2 drops of 0.05% solution 2–4 times daily.
  • ADRs: ophthalmic–irritation; systemic–tachycardia, hypertension

Prostaglandin Agonists

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma ( outflow of aqueous humor).

CAUTIONS: May change eye color to brown; will form precipitate with thimerosal-containing products; can be used with other agents to intraocular pressure.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
bimatoprostDurystaLumiganAdults and children 16 yr: 1 drop of 0.01–0.03% solution once daily in the evening.
Adults: One implant in anterior chamber of affected eye.
  • ADRs: local irritation, foreign body sensation, eyelash growth, brown pigmentation in iris
latanoprostIyuzehXalatanXelprosAdults: 1 drop of 0.005% solution/emulsion once daily in the evening.
  • ADRs: local irritation, foreign body sensation, eyelash growth, brown pigmentation in iris
latanoprosteneVyzultaAdults and children >16 yr: 1 drop of 0.024% solution once daily in the evening.
  • ADRs: conjunctival hyperemia, local irritation, eye pain, eyelash growth, brown pigmentation in iris
omidenepag isopropylOmlontiAdults: 1 drop of 0.002% solution once daily in the evening.
  • ADRs: conjunctival hyperemia, photophobia, blurred vision, dry eye, eye pain, headache, eyelash growth, brown pigmentation in iris
tafluprostZioptanAdults: 1 drop of 0.0015% solution once daily in the evening.
  • ADRs: local irritation, foreign body sensation, eyelash growth, brown pigmentation in iris
travoprostTravatan ZAdults and children 16 yr: 1 drop of 0.004% solution once daily in the evening.
  • ADRs: local irritation, foreign body sensation, eyelash growth, brown pigmentation in iris

Rho Kinase Inhibitor

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension ( outflow of aqueous humor).

CAUTIONS: Can be used with other agents to intraocular pressure.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
netarsudilRhopressaAdults: 1 drop of 0.02% solution once daily in the evening.
  • ADRs: conjunctival hyperemia, corneal verticillata, conjunctival hemorrhage eye pain

Semifluorinated Alkan

Uses: Dry eye disease.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
perfluorohexyloctaneMieboAdults: 1 drop of 100% solution 4 times daily.
  • ADRs: blurred vision

Sympathomimetics

Uses: Treatment of open-angle glaucoma and other forms of intraocular hypertension ( formation of aqueous humor); brimonidine also available as over-the-counter product to ocular redness.

CAUTIONS: Systemic absorption may result in adverse cardiovascular and CNS reactions (especially in patients with cardiovascular disease); avoid use in patients predisposed to acute angle-closure glaucoma.

DRUG NAMEDOSENOTES
apraclonidineIopidineAdults:Open-angle glaucoma: 1–2 drops of 0.5% solution 3 times daily;Postoperative reduction of intraocular pressure: 1 drop of 1% solution 1 hr before surgery and upon completion of surgery.
  • A selective alpha-adrenergic agonist
  • Monitor pulse and blood pressure
  • Avoid concurrent use with MAO inhibitors
  • ADRs: ophthalmic-irritation, mydriasis; systemic-allergic reactions, arrhythmias, bradycardia, drowsiness, dry nose, fainting, headache, nervousness, weakness
brimonidineAlphagan PLumify [OTC]Adults and children 2 yr:Glaucoma: 1 drop of 0.1–0.2% solution 3 times daily (8 hr apart).
Adults and children 5 yr:Ocular redness (Lumify): 1 drop of 0.025% solution every 6–8 hr as needed (up to 4 times daily).
  • A selective alpha-adrenergic agonist
  • Avoid concurrent use with MAO inhibitors
  • Tricyclic antidepressants may effectiveness; additive CNS depression may occur with other CNS depressants, additive adverse cardiovascular effects with other cardiovascular agents
  • ADRs: ophthalmic–irritation; systemic–drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, weakness, muscular pain