Minims Phenylephrine HCl Dosage/Direction for Use

Sometimes a drop of local anaesthetic may be used prior to Minims Phenylephrine Hydrochloride to prevent the stinging effect of phenylephrine eye drops. The drops are for single use only and provided in single use Minims units, to treat both eyes if both eyes are affected.
Once opened, use immediately. Discard any unused portion.
Dosage: The recommended dose is one drop in each eye. If necessary this can be repeated once only at least one hour after the first drop.
Phenylephrine 2.5% w/v: For examination of the eye, the normal dose for adults, elderly and children, is one drop in each eye. If necessary this can be repeated once only at least one hour after the first drop.
Phenylephrine 10% w/v: For adults the same dose is recommended. However, Minims Phenylephrine 10% w/v should not be used in children below the age of 12 years. Phenylephrine 10% w/v is not recommended for use in children aged 12 to 18 years or elderly patients. If the patient is receiving this product as part of a treatment programme the doctor may suggest an additional dose schedule of one drop every 24 hours of the 2.5% w/v product.
Method of administration: Parents must be careful not to get this preparation in their children's mouth or cheeks and to wash their hands and the child's hands or cheeks following administration.
The doctor or eye specialist will normally put the drops in the eye for the patient, but if the patient is the one putting the eye drops, follow these instructions carefully: 1. Wash hands.
2. Use a mirror, this will help to see what is being done.
3. Carefully dry the eyes using a tissue. Twist and pull cap to separate from the Minims body.
4. Pull the lower eyelid down gently, and then carefully place 1 drop inside the lower eyelid.
5. Close the eye and blink a few times to make sure the eye is covered by the liquid.
6. Close the eyelids. It is advisable to press gently on the inner corner of the eyelid for 3 minutes. This will help stop the solution draining into the nose and throat.
7. Repeat steps 4, 5 and 6 for the other eye if necessary, then throw away the Minims unit, even if some solution remains.
If the patient forgets to use Minims Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, he/she should take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next dose, but the patient should not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.