What is AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
Dipivefrin reduces the amount of fluid in the eye, which decreases pressure inside the eye.
Dipivefrin ophthalmic is used to treat open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension (high pressure inside the eye).
Dipivefrin ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to dipivefrin, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.
Before using dipivefrin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have high blood pressure or a history of cataract surgery.
Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses. This medication may contain a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using dipivefrin before putting your contact lenses in.
Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to dipivefrin, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.
Before using dipivefrin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
- high blood pressure; or
- a history of cataract surgery
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use dipivefrin ophthalmic.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether dipivefrin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
AK-Pro Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
Stop using dipivefrin and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
- severe stinging or burning in your eyes
- fast or uneven heart rate; or
- high blood pressure (severe headache, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath)
Less serious side effects may include:
- burning, stinging, or itching of your eyes
- blurred vision
- redness of the eye or eyelid
- sensitivity to light
- eye pain; or
- headache
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
AK-Pro Interactions
What other drugs affect AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
There may be other drugs that can interact with dipivefrin ophthalmic. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
Avoid using any eye medications your doctor has not prescribed.
AK-Pro Dosage
How should I take AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses. This medication may contain a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using dipivefrin before putting your contact lenses in.
To apply the eye drops:
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the dropper tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye
- Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct
- If you use any other eye medications, wait about 5 minutes after using dipivefrin eye drops before using the other medication
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.
Store the drops at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I overdose on AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of dipivefrin ophthalmic is unlikely to cause life-threatening side effects.
What happens if I miss a dose of AK-Pro (Dipivefrin Ophthalmic)?
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.
Edited from everydayhealth.com