Why is this medication prescribed?

Akpro, which contains dipivefrin, is prescribed primarily for the management of open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Dipivefrin is a prodrug of epinephrine that helps to lower intraocular pressure by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Akpro (dipivefrin ophthalmic):

• Wash Your Hands: Clean your hands thoroughly before handling the eye drops.
• Prepare the Dropper: Shake the bottle gently if instructed by your pharmacist or as per the product guidelines.
• Tilt Your Head Back: Position yourself comfortably, tilting your head back slightly.
• Pull Down Your Lower Eyelid: Gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket.
• Apply the Drops: Hold the dropper above your eye and squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket of your lower eyelid.
• Close Your Eye: Close your eye gently without blinking or squeezing to help the medication spread evenly.
• Press Gently: If recommended, you can press gently on the inner corner of your eye (near the nose) for about one minute to prevent the medication from draining away.
• Wipe Away Excess: Use a clean tissue to wipe away any excess liquid from around your eye.
• Repeat: If you need to apply drops in both eyes, repeat the steps for the other eye.
• Replace the Cap: Put the cap back on the bottle tightly after use.
• Avoid Contamination: Make sure the dropper does not touch your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
• Follow Up: Keep up with any follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition.

If you have any questions about how to use Akpro or if you experience any side effects, consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Akpro (dipivefrin ophthalmic) is primarily used for managing open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Its effectiveness in lowering intraocular pressure makes it suitable for these conditions. It’s not commonly used for other purposes, but in some cases, doctors may prescribe it off-label for related eye conditions where lowering intraocular pressure is beneficial.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to dipivefrin, epinephrine, or any other ingredients in the medication.
• Medical History: Notify your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or any other systemic conditions, as dipivefrin can affect cardiovascular function.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of dipivefrin in these situations has not been fully established.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements. Some medications can interact with dipivefrin.
• Eye Conditions: Let your healthcare provider know if you have any other eye conditions or are using other eye medications, as this might affect how Akpro works or increase the risk of side effects.
• Avoid Overuse: Use the medication exactly as prescribed. Overusing it can increase the risk of side effects or lead to worsening of your condition.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor your intraocular pressure and adjust treatment as needed.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Be cautious if you experience blurred vision or other side effects that could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.

If you have any concerns or questions about using Akpro, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Akpro. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet can support overall eye health and help manage conditions like glaucoma. Always follow any additional dietary advice given by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Schedule: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Routine: Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Consult: If you are unsure about what to do after missing a dose or if you miss multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Akpro (dipivefrin ophthalmic) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Here are some potential side effects:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Eye Irritation: Redness, itching, or a burning sensation in the eye.
  • Dry Eyes: A feeling of dryness or discomfort.
  • Blurred Vision: Temporary blurred vision after applying the drops.
• Less Common but Serious Side Effects:
  • Increased Heart Rate: Palpitations or a rapid heartbeat.
  • Elevated Blood Pressure: Headaches or dizziness due to high blood pressure.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
  • Severe Eye Problems: Significant eye pain, changes in vision, or persistent redness and irritation.
  • Systemic Reactions: Symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, or sweating, due to the systemic absorption of the medication.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide guidance on how to manage side effects or determine if an alternative treatment is needed.

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

Storage and Disposal of Akpro:

• Storage:
  • Keep it Closed: Store the bottle tightly closed.
  • Temperature: Keep Akpro at room temperature, typically between 59°F and 77°F (15°C and 25°C). Avoid exposure to excessive heat or cold.
  • Avoid Moisture: Keep it in a dry place. Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Disposal:
  • Do Not Flush: Do not flush Akpro down the toilet or pour it into a drain.
  • Local Regulations: Follow local regulations for disposing of medications. Some areas have take-back programs or specific disposal instructions.
  • Contact Pharmacist: Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for advice on the proper disposal of unused or expired medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Poison Control: Call your local poison control center or emergency services if you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Look for signs like severe headache, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, tremors, or extreme dizziness.
• Emergency Room: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or a serious reaction.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Keep up with regular eye exams and follow-up appointments to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of the medication.
• Medication Interaction: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking.
• Adherence to Instructions: Use Akpro exactly as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness and minimize risks of side effects.
• Consult Healthcare Provider: If you have any questions or concerns about the medication, including changes in your condition or side effects, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

If you have any specific concerns or questions about using Akpro, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for more detailed guidance.