What is the most important information I should know about tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic?
You not use tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic without a doctor's advice if you have
glaucoma.
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 tetrahydrozoline 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.
Do not use tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic more often than recommended, or use it for
longer than 48 to 72 hours without a doctor's advice. Long-term use of this medication may
damage the
blood vessels in the eyes. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if
they get worse.
What is tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic?
Tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic narrows the blood vessels (veins and arteries) in your eyes.
Tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic is used to relieve redness, burning, irritation, and
dryness of the eyes caused by wind, sun, and other minor irritants.
Tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this
medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic?
You not use tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic without a doctor's advice if you have
glaucoma.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you
have:
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
tetrahydrozoline nasal 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.
Do not give this medication to a child without a doctor's advice.
How should I use tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic?
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do
not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not use tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic more often than recommended, or use it for
longer than 48 to 72 hours without a doctor's advice. Long-term use of this medication may
damage the blood vessels in the eyes. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if
they get worse.
Wash your hands before and after 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 tetrahydrozoline before putting your contact lenses in.
To apply the eye drops:
-
Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid. 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 more than one drop in the same eye, wait about 5 minutes before putting in the next drop.
-
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 tetrahydrozoline ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep the bottle properly capped.