Alphagan P: Glaucoma Agent

A problem that most people fear as they age is glaucoma. Fortunately, even though glaucoma is a continuing disease, it is treatable. If you have had issues with glaucoma lately and have been or will be prescribed Alphagan P (Brimonidine Tartrate), this informative literature will be beneficial to you as the patient and victim of the dreaded glaucoma. With proper use, Alphagan P. will lessen your symptoms and help you lead a more comfortable life as your eyes adjust to the changes caused by glaucoma.

Alphagan P comes as an ophthalmic Solution. It is composed of .1% Brimonidine Tartrate with Purite added in at 005%. Purite acts a preservative when used in Alphagan P. Alphagan P. can also come as a 0.15% Bromonidine Tartrate solution with Purite in the same latter strength as well.

Alphagan P is used to reduce elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. This is also described as intense pain in and around the eye itself, which causes extreme discomfort and even visual disturbances.

Bromonidine Tartrate is a relatively selective alpha-2-adrenergic agonist (this is what lowers intraocular pressure). The way Alphagan P works is by reducing the aqueous humor production and increased uveoscleral outflow. (In other words, Alphagan P works in two ways: it reduces production of the liquid that fills the eyeball, and it promotes drainage of this liquid.) Elevated intraocular pressure increases the patient's risk of optic nerve damage and visual field loss. Peak ocular hypertensive effects are reached in two hours post dose. System half life is approximate three hours. Very small amounts are absorbed after topical use in the eye and present minimal cardiovascular and pulmonary effects.

When using Alphagan P, one drop is to be instilled in the affected eye(s) three times a day, approximately eight hours apart. The intraocular pressure lowering effects may lessen over time in some patients. If you become aware of this, notify your doctor at your next appointment. This loss of effect appears at different times in different patients and should be closely monitored since it can not be known beforehand.

If you are using Tricyclic antidepressants, using the effectiveness of Alphagan P may be decreased. Additive effects may be seen when used with beta blockers (oral or opthalmic). Co administration with MAO Inhibitors may raise blood pressure.

If you are a patient using monoamine oxidase inhibitors, use with caution. Caution should also be exercised in patients with depression, cerebral or coronary insufficiency, Raynaud's phenomenon, orthostatic hypotension, or thromboangitis obliterans. If you are pregnant, or plan to be pregnant while using Alphagan P, make sure to consult with your doctor regarding this.

Like all medicines, there are some side effects that you should look out for. Allergic conjunctivitis, conjunctival hyperemia, and eye pruritis are the most common adverse effects. Less frequent effects include burning sensation, conjunctival foliculosis, hypertension, dry mouth, and visual disturbances. Contact your doctor if any of these side effects prove to be severe of persistent.

Some patients aren't aware of how to use the Alphagan P prescription. To instill Alphagan P in your eye(s), lie down, or tilt your head backward and look toward the ceiling. Hold the dropper above your eye, and drop the solution inside your lower lid. Make sure that the dropper does not come in contact with your eye or your fingers. You don't want to spread any infection that may be on them. Release the lid, keeping the affected eye open for at least thirty seconds. Apply pressure to the inside corner of your eye for at least one minute to prevent any medicine from being wasted. Wait at least one minute before instilling other ophthalmic preparations. After you instill the drops, avoid squinting or closing your eyes tightly. Also, remember to store Alphagan P in a cool, dry place away from children and sunlight to prevent loss of effectiveness and misuse of others who were not prescribed your specific Alphagan P solution. Take the prescription as directed and for the amount of time the doctor prescribes for. Unless the doctor says otherwise, don't discontinue the prescription. In time, your condition will be assuaged and the pain less persistent.