Oxymetazoline Ophthalmic ( Visine L.R., Allergex, Oxylin, Lubyox )

Oxymetazoline is a vasoconstrictor. It works by narrowing swollen blood vessels in the eyes to reduce eye redness. Oxymetazoline ophthalmic (for the eyes) is for temporary relief of minor eye redness or discomfort caused by minor irritants. Oxymetazoline ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. What are the possible side effects of oxymetazoline ophthalmic (Oxylin, Visine L.R., Allergex)? Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using oxymetazoline ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have:

• ongoing or worsening eye redness;

• eye pain;

• changes in your vision;

• chest pain, fast or uneven heart rate; or

• severe headache, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, or feeling short of breath.

Common side effects may include:

• mild burning or stinging of the eye;

• blurred vision, watery eyes; or

• mild headache, dizziness, nervousness.

What is the most important information I should know about oxymetazoline ophthalmic (Ocuclear, Visine L.R., Allergex)? Oxymetazoline ophthalmic is for temporary relief of minor eye redness or discomfort caused by minor irritants. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have ongoing or worsening eye redness, eye pain, or vision changes.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking oxymetazoline ophthalmic (Ocuclear, Visine L.R., Allergex, Oxylin, Lubyox)? You should not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic if you are allergic to it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• glaucoma;

• heart disease, high blood pressure;

• diabetes;

• a thyroid disorder; or

• an eye injury or infection.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether oxymetazoline ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether oxymetazoline ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. How should I take oxymetazoline ophthalmic (Ocuclear, Visine L.R., )? Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Using the medication too long or too often may worsen your symptoms and cause damage to the blood vessels in your eyes. Wash your hands before using the eye drops. To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.

• Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• Use only the number of drops recommended.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems. Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.