Daily Medication Pearl: Brimonidine Ophthalmic Solution (Alphagan P)

Medication Pearl of the Day: Brimonidine ophthalmic solution (Alphagan P)

Indication: Brimonidine ophthalmic solution (Alphagan P) is an alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Insight:

• Dosing: One drop in the affected eye(s), 3 times daily, approximately 8 hours apart.
• Dosage forms: Solution containing 1 or 1.5 mg/mL brimonidine tartrate.
• Adverse events: Most common adverse reactions occurring in approximately 5% to 20% of patients receiving brimonidine ophthalmic solution (0.1%-0.2%) included allergic conjunctivitis, burning sensation, conjunctival folliculosis, conjunctival hyperemia, eye pruritus, hypertension, ocular allergic reaction, oral dryness, and visual disturbance.
• Mechanism of action: Alphagan P is a relatively selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist with a peak ocular hypotensive effect occurring at 2 hours post-dosing.
• Manufacturer: Allergan

Sources:

ALPHAGAN® P Prescribing Information (allergan.com)

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