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Home > Drug Category > Elevated Intra-Ocular Pressure > Iopidine and Equivalent

Iopidine (Apraclonidine) Information

Iopidine contains the active ingredient apraclonidine and is an eye medication used to lower high pressure inside the eye. It is commonly used in people with glaucoma or ocular hypertension, especially after laser eye procedures, when eye pressure may rise suddenly. Iopidine is used as eye drops and works directly in the eye to protect the optic nerve and help prevent vision loss. It is usually intended for short-term use because its effects can weaken over time.

The mechanism of action of apraclonidine involves stimulation of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the eye, which help control aqueous humour production. It reduces the amount of fluid produced inside the eye and helps fluid drain more easily. This lowers pressure inside the eye. Although the medication is applied to the eye, small amounts may enter the bloodstream, which can sometimes cause effects outside the eye.

Iopidine Side Effects

Iopidine is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur. Common side effects include eye redness, burning or stinging after use, itching, dry eyes, watery eyes, blurred vision, eyelid swelling, or the feeling that something is in the eye. Some people may also feel tired, sleepy, have a headache, or notice a dry mouth.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Severe or ongoing eye pain;
• Significant eye swelling, discharge, or signs of infection;
• Strong allergic reactions such as intense redness, eyelid swelling, rash, or severe itching;
• Sudden or worsening vision problems

Iopidine Precautions

Do not use Iopidine if you are allergic to apraclonidine or any ingredient in the eye drops. Before using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history. Extra caution is needed if you have heart disease, low blood pressure, kidney or liver problems, or depression. Iopidine is usually not recommended for long-term use because people can develop tolerance or allergic eye reactions over time. Do not use Iopidine if you are taking, or have taken in the last 14 days, a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant.

Tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Iopidine may interact with certain antidepressants, blood pressure medications, sedatives, and other eye drops. If you use more than one eye medication, wait at least 5–10 minutes between each one.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The safety and effectiveness of apraclonidine in pregnancy are not established. Iopidine should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. It is unknown if apraclonidine passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor.

Use Iopidine exactly as prescribed. Wash your hands before using the drops. Place the drops into the eye without touching the bottle tip to your eye or skin. After applying the drop, gently close your eye and press lightly on the inner corner of the eye for 1–2 minutes to reduce the chance of the medicine entering the bloodstream. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops. Wait at least 15 minutes after using Iopidine before putting your lenses back in. This medication is not for use in infants. It should be kept strictly out of reach of children, as accidental ingestion can lead to serious, life-threatening side effects. Do not stop using Iopidine unless your doctor tells you to. Store it at room temperature, away from light, and keep it out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Iopidine?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Iopidine.