What is Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

Pilocarpine reduces the amount of fluid in the eye, which decreases pressure inside the eye.

Pilocarpine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat glaucoma or ocular hypertension (high pressure inside the eye).

Pilocarpine ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to pilocarpine, or if you have uveitis or pupillary block glaucoma.

Before using pilocarpine ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may 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 pilocarpine 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.

Akarpine Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

Stop using pilocarpine 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, burning, swelling, or redness of your eye
• vision changes
• eye pain or increased watering; or
• crusting or drainage around your eye

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild burning, stinging, or discomfort of your eyes
• blurred vision; or
• trouble seeing in dark light

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.

Akarpine Interactions

What other drugs affect Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

There may be other drugs that can interact with pilocarpine 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 Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

Pilocarpine can cause side effects that can make it harder for you to see at night or in low light. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.

Avoid using any other eye medications your doctor has not prescribed.

Akarpine Dosage

How should I take Akarpine (Pilocarpine 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.

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 pilocarpine 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 Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include sweating, nausea, tremors, or slow heart rate.

What happens if I miss a dose of Akarpine (Pilocarpine Ophthalmic)?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Edited from everydayhealth.com