Health Library

Apraclonidine (Into the eye)

Apraclonidine (a-pra-KLON-i-deen)

Treats or prevents increased pressure in the eye caused by glaucoma or cataract surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Iopidine

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Drop

• You will receive this medicine as an eyedrop 1 hour before and right after your eye surgery.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use this medicine if you are also using an MAO inhibitor (MAOI).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart or blood vessel disease (including Raynaud disease, thromboangiitis obliterans), or a history of heart attack or stroke.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting
• Eye redness, burning, itching, or discomfort
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Feeling like there is something in your eye
• Redness, swelling, or whitening of your eyelids

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024