Alphagan contains the active ingredient brimonidine tartrate in the form of a salt. It is a relatively selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist used as a topical intraocular pressure lowering agent. The formulation is a 0.2% ophthalmic solution administered to the eye. Key inactive ingredients include benzalkonium chloride, citric acid, and sodium chloride.

How should I use this medication?

This medication 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. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower lid with the index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface. Squeeze one drop into the pouch. Close the eye gently. Do not blink or rub your eyes. Apply pressure to the inside corner of your eye for a few minutes after placing the medication to help it stay in your eye longer. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Talk to your care team about the use of this medication 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?

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.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication 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.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: -Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat -New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome): -Change in taste -Change in vision -Dizziness -Dry eyes -Dry mouth -Eye irritation or itching -Headache -Increased tears after use

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -Buerger's disease -Closed-angle glaucoma -Depression -Eye infection or damage -Heart disease -Kidney disease -Liver disease -Raynaud's phenomenon -Wear contact lenses -An unusual or allergic reaction to brimonidine, benzalkonium chloride, Purite preservative, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives -Pregnant or trying to get pregnant -Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may interact with the following: -Alcohol -Certain medications for blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heart beat -Medications that cause drowsiness or tiredness -MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate -Tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, clomipramine, and desipramine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider 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 should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Report any serious side effects right away. Stop using this medication if your eyes get swollen, painful, or have a discharge, and see your care team as soon as you can. If you wear contact lenses, take them out before using this medication. Wait 15 minutes before putting them back into your eyes. If you are using another eye medication, wait at least 10 minutes in between using each medication. Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your care team if the problem does not go away or is severe. Wear dark glasses if this medication makes your eyes more sensitive to light.