Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Pilocarpine Eyedrops
Other Names: Isopto Carpine Ophthalmic Solution, Pilocarpine Hydrochloride Eyedrops
Drug Class: Miotics
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Pilocar? (Back to top)
PILOCARPINE is used in the eye to decrease pressure in certain kinds of glaucoma. It is also used to prepare the eyes for surgery. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• asthma, bronchitis
• glaucoma
• heart disease
• inflammation or damage in the eye
• wear contact lenses
• an unusual or allergic reaction to pilocarpine, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• breast-feeding
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. With your middle finger, apply pressure to the inside corner of your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Do not blink for 30 seconds. Close your eye gently for 1 to 2 minutes to spread the drops.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

• atropine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• eye irritation, burning, or itching
• difficulty breathing
• irregular heartbeat
• nausea, vomiting

• blurred vision
• dizziness
• headache
• sensitivity of the eyes to light
• weakness or tiredness

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine can make your vision blur. You may find it is difficult to see, especially at night. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires clear vision until you know how this medicine affects you. This medicine may make your eyes more sensitive to light. Wear dark glasses in bright sun, or under any bright lights.

Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine.

You can get dehydrated if you sweat a lot while taking this medicine. Make sure you drink enough fluids in order to stay hydrated.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:June 08, 2006

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