Isopto Carpine

The active ingredient in Isopto Carpine is pilocarpine hydrochloride. Pilocarpine is a cholinergic agonist that stimulates receptors in the eye to cause miosis (pupil constriction). This action opens the drainage angle inside the affected eye and helps reduce intraocular pressure. By improving the outflow of fluid inside the eye, pilocarpine helps protect the retina and optic nerve from pressure-related damage, making it useful for glaucoma and other eye conditions involving increased eye pressure.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Isopto carpine. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Isopto carpine:

1. Wash your hands before applying the eye drops.

2. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and apply the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid.

3. Do not let the dropper tip touch your eye, eyelid, or any surface.

4. After applying the drops, close your eyes gently and avoid blinking. Press your finger to the corner of your eye for 1–2 minutes. Then repeat for the other eye.

5. Remove contact lenses before using Isopto Carpine and wait at least 15 minutes before inserting lenses again.

6. If you miss a dose and it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double doses.

7. If multiple eye drops are prescribed, separate each ophthalmic solution by at least 5 minutes.

Some mild or common side effects of Isopto carpine seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Blurred vision.
• Browache or headache.
• Eye irritation or redness.
• Temporary burning or stinging after use.
• Increased sweating or salivation.
• Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Isopto carpine. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of retinal detachment include flashes of light, floaters, or sudden vision loss.
• Severe allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face, or trouble breathing.
• Eye pain that does not improve.
• Symptoms of uveitis or iritis, such as light sensitivity or worsening redness.
• Increased eye inflammation after eye surgery.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Isopto carpine. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Isopto carpine, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

A history of retinal detachment or risk factors affecting the retina.

Uveitis, iritis, or other inflammatory eye diseases.

Difficulty seeing in dim light, as pilocarpine causes miosis.

Eye conditions requiring caution during treatment, such as presbyopia.

Known hypersensitivity to pilocarpine or any component of the formulation.

Severe or uncontrolled eye inflammation or active uveitis.

Isopto Carpine begins to reduce intraocular pressure shortly after use, with the full effect usually seen within an hour. For open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, regular dosing throughout the day is required to maintain stable eye pressure.

When Isopto carpine is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

There are no significant drug interactions with this medication.

Isopto Carpine is available as an ophthalmic solution containing 1%, 2%, or 4% pilocarpine.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Isopto Carpine is manufactured and distributed by Novartis.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop using the eye drops without speaking to your healthcare provider. Sudden discontinuation may cause intraocular pressure to rise again, which can worsen glaucoma or other eye diseases.

There are limited studies of the use of this drug during pregnancy, and its use is not recommended by the manufacturer.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known whether pilocarpine is excreted in breast milk, and the manufacturer does not recommend using it during breastfeeding.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.