Pilocarpine is used to treat an increased pressure in the eye.
This medicine helps keep the pressure in your eyes from rising before or after an eye surgery.
Use Pilocarpine eye drop solution exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a gel or as an eye drop solution.
To use this medicine:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before using the medicine.
2. Tilt your head slightly backwards. With the index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch and look upward.
3. If you have been given a gel, apply a thin ribbon of gel in the affected area or if you have been given an eye drop solution, instill the required number of drops inside the lower eyelid.
4. Close your eyes and do not blink for the next 30 seconds.
5. Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a clean tissue.
6. Replace and tighten the cap of the bottle.
Do not allow the tip of the dropper of this medicine to touch your eyes, eyelids or any other surface. Recap the bottle immediately after use. If this medicine becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eyes.
If you have been given any other eye drops or medicines to be used together with Pilocarpine, wait for at least 5 minutes before using the other medicine.
Do not share this medicine with anyone else.
Apply/Instill the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have an eye inflammation as Pilocarpine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- other eye disorder
- heart disease
- asthma
- stomach ulcer
- thyroid disease
- kidney or bladder disease
- Parkinson's disease (a brain disease that affects movement)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are wearing soft contact lenses, remove it before using Pilocarpine. Wait for at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses.
For as long as you are using this medicine, you may need to have your eyes checked regularly to monitor the pressure in your eyes. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Pilocarpine may cause dizziness or some problems with your eyesight. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, nausea, eye discomfort such as burning sensation, irritation, pain, itching and redness of the eyes.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Do not use 4 weeks after first opening.