Friday, April 30, 2010

ATROPINE SULFATE - OPHTHALMIC

USES: This medication relaxes muscles in the eye, which causes the pupil to widen (dilate). It is used to treat inflammation of certain parts of the eye (uveal tract). It is also used for certain eye exams.

HOW TO USE: To apply eye drops, first wash your hands. Be careful not to touch the dropper or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over the eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 or 2 minutes. Apply gentle pressure to the corner of the eye to keep the medicine in and to minimize the possibilty of the drug being absorbed by your body. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. If more than one type of eye medicine is to be used, wait at least 5 minutes before using other eye medications. Do not use eye drops that have changed color.


SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause temporary drowsiness or blurred vision. Headache, temporary burning or stinging may occur at first. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to this drug. If they persist or worsen, inform your doctor. This medication may cause your eyes to be sensitive to bright light. Wear sunglasses if needed. Unlikely but report changes in vision, eye pain, trembling, rapid heartbeat, fever, dizziness or difficult urination. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble or discharge from the eye(s). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: glaucoma (narrow angle), other eye problems, Down's syndrome, any allergies. Do not wear soft contact lenses while using this drug because the lenses may discolor. Use caution when driving or performing tasks requiring alertness. Use caution when using this drug in children because children may be more sensitive to drug side effects. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if atropine eye medicine is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.


DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this medicine, tell your doctor of all drugs you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: other eye preparations. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.


OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.


NOTES: Do not allow others to use this medication.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze this medication. Store solution in a cool, dark place. Discard the solution if it turns brown, cloudy or contains particles. When your doctor tells you to stop using this medication, throw away any unused portion. Do not save for later use.

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