Why is this medication prescribed?

Netarsudil ophthalmic is a medication prescribed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Elevated intraocular pressure is a significant risk factor for these eye conditions, and by reducing it, the progression of glaucoma and potential damage to the optic nerve can be slowed down.

How should this medicine be used?

• Dosage: The typical dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening.
• Administration: Wash your hands before using the eye drops to avoid contamination. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper tip close to your eye without touching it, and then squeeze one drop into the eye. Close your eyes for a minute or two and gently press on the inner corner of your eye to prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct.
• Contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. Netarsudil ophthalmic may contain preservatives that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses and may cause irritation.
• Multiple eye drops: If you are using other eye drops as well, wait at least 5 minutes between applying each medication. This helps to ensure that each drop is adequately absorbed and prevents one drop from washing out the other.
• Compliance: Use the medication regularly and as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Precautions: Before using Netarsudil ophthalmic, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of eye problems or are using other eye medications. Inform them of any allergies or sensitivities you may have.
• Side effects: Like all medications, Netarsudil ophthalmic can have side effects. Common side effects include eye redness, eye itching, and stinging or burning sensations. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor promptly.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and recommendations when using Netarsudil ophthalmic or any other medication for your eyes. If you have any concerns or questions about the medication, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your eye care professional.

Other uses for this medicine

Netarsudil ophthalmic is primarily indicated for lowering intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It is specifically approved for this purpose, and there are no other widely recognized medical uses for Netarsudil ophthalmic. The information provided here is based on the approved and recognized indications up to that date. However, there may have been updates or new research conducted after that time.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Netarsudil Ophthalmic:

• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to Netarsudil or any other ingredients in the eye drops, you should avoid using this medication. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Eye infections or injuries: Inform your doctor if you have any ongoing eye infections or injuries before using Netarsudil ophthalmic. The eye drops may not be suitable for use in such cases or may require additional precautions.
• Eye inflammation: If you have a history of eye inflammation, talk to your doctor before starting Netarsudil treatment, as it may worsen the condition or require careful monitoring.
• Contact lenses: As mentioned earlier, if you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Netarsudil eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them to prevent any potential interactions or discomfort.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It’s essential to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using any medication, including Netarsudil ophthalmic. The potential risks and benefits for the baby and the mother should be carefully assessed.
• Children and elderly: Safety and efficacy data in pediatric and geriatric populations may be limited. Special caution and individualized dosing may be required in these age groups.
• Other medications: Inform your doctor about all the medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any supplements you are taking. Some medications may interact with Netarsudil, potentially affecting its effectiveness or causing adverse effects.
• Eye surgery: If you are scheduled for any eye surgery, including cataract surgery, inform your eye surgeon about your use of Netarsudil eye drops. It’s possible that you may need to discontinue the medication before the procedure.

As with any prescription medication, it is crucial to follow your doctor’s advice, adhere to the prescribed dosage, and report any unusual or concerning side effects promptly. If you have specific questions or concerns about Netarsudil ophthalmic or its use, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your eye care professional or healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Netarsudil ophthalmic eye drops. Generally, you can continue with your regular diet while using this medication. However, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and recommendations regarding your overall eye health, which may include a healthy diet with sufficient nutrients beneficial for your eyes.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a dose of Netarsudil ophthalmic, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Netarsudil ophthalmic eye drops may cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some of the common side effects of Netarsudil ophthalmic include:

• Eye redness: This is one of the most frequently reported side effects. The eyes may appear red or bloodshot, and this usually subsides over time.
• Eye irritation: Some individuals may experience a sensation of itching, burning, or stinging in the eyes after using the eye drops.
• Conjunctival hyperemia: This refers to an increase in the redness of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye.
• Corneal verticillata: A condition where fine, vortex-like deposits may form on the surface of the cornea. These deposits are usually asymptomatic and reversible with discontinuation of the medication.
• Eye discharge: In some cases, there may be increased tear production or a discharge from the eyes.
• Blepharitis: This is inflammation of the eyelids, which can cause redness and swelling.
• Allergic reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the medication, which can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s important to note that the list above is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects while using Netarsudil ophthalmic eye drops, contact your eye care professional or healthcare provider promptly.

Furthermore, keep in mind that Netarsudil may interact with other medications or have specific contraindications based on individual medical conditions. Always inform your doctor about any medical history you have and any other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions and adverse effects. Your eye care professional will be able to assess your specific situation and provide you with personalized advice regarding the use of Netarsudil ophthalmic.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Netarsudil Ophthalmic:

• Storage: Keep the Netarsudil ophthalmic eye drops in their original container and store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid exposing the medication to extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store the eye drops in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion of the medication can be harmful.
• Do not share medication: Netarsudil eye drops are prescribed specifically for you and should not be shared with others.
• Disposal: When you no longer need the medication or if it has passed its expiration date, dispose of it properly. Do not flush the eye drops down the toilet or pour them down the drain. Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on how to dispose of medications safely. Many communities have specific drug take-back programs to ensure proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or accidental ingestion of Netarsudil ophthalmic, contact your local poison control center (in the United States, you can call 1-800-222-1222) or seek immediate medical attention.

What other information should I know?

• Regular eye exams: Continue to have regular eye examinations as recommended by your eye care professional. Monitoring your eye health and intraocular pressure is crucial for managing glaucoma or ocular hypertension effectively.
• Compliance with dosing: It’s essential to use Netarsudil eye drops exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Consistent use of the medication is vital for its effectiveness in managing your condition.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your eye care professional. They will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
• Avoid touching the eye dropper tip: To prevent contamination, avoid touching the dropper tip with your fingers, eyes, or any other surfaces.
• Report side effects: If you experience any new or bothersome side effects while using Netarsudil ophthalmic, inform your eye care professional promptly.

Always seek guidance from your eye care professional or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the use of Netarsudil ophthalmic or any other medication. They can provide personalized advice and address any specific issues related to your eye health and treatment plan.