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Home > Drug Category > Elevated Intra-Ocular Pressure > Isopto Carpine and Equivalent

Isopto Carpine Information

Isopto Carpine (Pilocarpine) is primarily used for treating elevated eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It also remains a critical intervention for the emergency treatment of acute angle-closure glaucoma, along with some other medications. Glaucoma is a group of diseases characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the optic nerve and can eventually lead to permanent blindness if left untreated. It may also be used postoperatively to prevent the increased intraocular pressure that may occur after laser eye surgery. Isopto Carpine may also be used to induce miosis and reverse the effects of medications such as phenylephrine, which is used to dilate the pupils during an eye examination. Pilocarpine may also be used in older adults to treat presbyopia, an age-related loss of near vision.

The active ingredient in Isopto Carpine is pilocarpine hydrochloride, a direct-acting cholinergic agonist (parasympathomimetic). It works by directly stimulating the iris sphincter and ciliary muscles to contract. This action physically opens the trabecular meshwork, allowing fluid to drain from the eye more effectively and thereby reducing intraocular pressure. It is particularly effective in treating acute angle-closure glaucoma, as its pupil-constricting effect pulls the iris away from the drainage angle, thereby clearing the obstruction that caused the sudden pressure spike. By mechanically reopening these drainage pathways, the medication rapidly lowers intraocular pressure and helps protect the optic nerve from further injury.

Isopto Carpine Side Effects

Like other medications, pilocarpine can cause some side effects. Common side effects of this medication include blurred vision or changes in near or distance vision, decreased night vision, eye irritation, headache, and dizziness. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop using this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting;
• Dizziness;
• Eye pain or swelling;
• Increased floaters or flashes in your field of vision

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Isopto Carpine Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to pilocarpine or any other ingredients in this topical medication. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Breathing difficulties such as asthma;
• Heart disease;
• High or low blood pressure;
• Other eye conditions such as retinal diseases, or inflammation of the coloured part of the eye (iris or uvea);
• Parkinson's disease;
• Peptic ulcer disease;
• Thyroid disease;
• Urinary difficulties

Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding to discuss its risks and benefits. This medication contains a preservative that can damage soft contact lenses. You’ll need to remove your lenses before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you, as it can cause blurry vision and dizziness.

Some medications like atropine, certain allergy medicines (antihistamines), or some older antidepressants work in the exact opposite way of pilocarpine. If you use these, they can interact adversely with pilocarpine and prevent it from lowering your intraocular pressure or constricting your pupil. Therefore, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including other topical eye medications and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before using pilocarpine to assess potential drug interactions. Apply Isopto Carpine eye drops in your eyes as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage depending on your clinical condition. Check out the leaflet in the medicine pack for instructions on how to apply this medication. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it away from children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Isopto Carpine?

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