Epinal - Talk Medical

Generic Name: epinephrine ophthalmic

Brands: Epifrin, Epinal, Eppy/N, Glaucon

What is the most important information I should know about Epinal?

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Apply light pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down the tear duct.

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Epinal may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

What is Epinal?

· Epinal causes decongestion in the eye by constricting blood vessels in the eye. It also enlarges the pupil, and it reduces the amount of fluid in the eye in two ways: It reduces the production of fluid inside the eye, and it increases the amount of fluid that drains from the eye.

· Epinal is used to treat open-angle glaucoma.

· Epinal may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Epinal?

· Epinal should not be used to treat narrow- or shallow-angle glaucoma.

· Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you ·have high blood pressure; ·take medicines to treat a heart condition; ·have asthma; ·have diabetes; or ·have thyroid problems.

· You may not be able to use Epinal, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Epinal. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Epinal may contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.

· Epinal is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Epinal will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether epinephrine passes into breast milk. Do not use Epinal without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Epinal?

· Use Epinal eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse to explain them to you.

· Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

· To apply the eye drops: ·Tilt the head back slightly and pull down on the lower eyelid. Position the dropper above the eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close the eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down the tear duct. If you are using more than 1 drop in the same eye, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops. Repeat the process in the other eye if needed.

· Epinal is usually used once or twice a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Do not use any eye drop that is discolored or has particles in it.

· Store the drops at room temperature or in the refrigerator away from heat and moisture. If you store the drops in the refrigerator, do not let them freeze. Keep the bottle properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

· If you suspect an overdose of this medication, or if the drops have been ingested (taken by mouth), contact an emergency room or poison control center for advice.

What should I avoid while using Epinal?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Epinal may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Epinal except under the direction of your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Epinal?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Epinal and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: ·an allergic reaction (swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; or hives); ·an irregular or fast heart rate; or ·high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, or flushed skin).

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Epinal and talk to your doctor if you experience ·burning, stinging, or pain in the eye; ·blurred vision; or ·headache or brow ache.

· Colored deposits (spots) on the inner lining of the eyelid or on the surface of the eye may develop during chronic treatment with Epinal. These deposits are harmless.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Epinal?

· Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Epinal except under the direction of your doctor.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Epinal. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Epinal written for health professionals that you may read.