ALPHAGAN DROP | BENEFITS, USES & SIDE EFFECTS

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

ALPHAGAN DROP is an eye drop solution that contains brimonidine tart rate, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that is well known to be useful in reducing intraocular pressure that contributes to glaucoma. ALPHAGAN DROP is an ophthalmic solution trusted by healthcare professionals in preserving eye health and preventing optic nerve damage.

The formulation has very low systemic absorption, thus making it good for long-term therapy for most patients. 

𝐔𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

ALPHAGAN DROPS is directed at:

1. The treatment of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG)—by maintaining intraocular pressure, damaging optic projection is prevented.
2. Ocular hypertension—to lower the eye pressure and so prevent the condition from becoming glaucoma.
3. Sometimes used as part of postoperative care to maintain proper eye pressure. 

𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬

1. Rapid Reduction in Eye Pressure: This drug can reduce the IOP within hours of application.
2. Direct Action: It works on the eyeball without major side effects in the body.
3. Preservation of Function: Reduction of pressure means less optic nerve damage; long-term vision is preserved.
4. Safe to Combine: Can be combined with other medications for added strength against glaucoma.
5. Minimal Side Effects: Formulated to provide minimal systemic absorption and discomfort. 

Side Effects

ALPHAGAN DROP is well tolerated by the majority of people, but a few possibly have side effects to mention:

1. Mild redness or irritation of the eye.
2. Dryness or burning sensation of the eye.
3. Allergic reactions such as swelling or itching of the eyelids.
4. Rarely headache or drowsiness.

Do consult your physician if you experience some emergent side effects, such as changes in vision or strong pain.  

How to Use

1. Dosage: Generally should be applied to the affected eye, one drop, as directed by the child’s ophthalmologist—two times a day.
2. Preparation: Wash your hands well before application. Before applying drops, shake the bottle gently.
3. Application:
   •   Tilt the head backward and pull down the lower eyelid to create a pocket.
   •    Squeeze the bottle gently to release one drop into the eye.
   •  Do not touch the tip of the dropper with your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
4. After application: Close your eye for 1-2 minutes and press the inner corner of your eye to avoid drainage.
5. Contact lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying these drops and wait for at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. 

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐈𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬

Alpha-drop activates the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors located in the eye, resulting in an important change in the

1. Decreased aqueous humor production: This contributes to the decrease in fluid created within the eye and, therefore, decreased IOP.
2. Increased uveoscleral outflow: This enhances the drainage of aqueous humor, further contributing to decreased pressure.

The dual action of ALPHAGAN DROP renders it advantageous for lowering elevated intraocular pressure, particularly in patients with glaucoma, while the optic nerve remains intact and loss of vision does not occur.