Why is this medication prescribed?

Bromsite is a prescription medication used to relieve pain and inflammation in the eye following cataract surgery. It is a combination of bromfenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and the anticholinergic agent, bromfenac.

Bromfenac works by inhibiting the production of certain substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. The anticholinergic component helps to dilate the pupil and prevent intraoperative miosis (pupil constriction) during cataract surgery.

How should this medicine be used?

Bromsite should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Here are general guidelines for using Bromsite:

• Wash Hands: Before using the eye drops, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to avoid introducing any germs into your eyes.
• Prepare the Dropper: Take the Bromsite bottle and shake it gently to ensure the contents are well mixed.
• Tilt Your Head Back: Tilt your head backward or lie down and look up toward the ceiling.
• Pull Down Lower Eyelid: With your index finger, gently pull down the lower eyelid of the affected eye to create a small pocket.
• Administer the Drop: Hold the Bromsite bottle upside down over the eye, taking care not to touch the tip to any surface, including your eye. Squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid.
• Close Eyes: Close your eyes gently for a few moments to allow the medication to spread evenly over the surface of the eye.
• Avoid Blinking: Try not to blink or squeeze your eyelids tightly immediately after administering the eye drop, as this may cause the medication to be expelled from the eye.
• Wipe Away Excess: any excess medication spills onto your skin, gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
• Repeat Steps if Necessary: If you need to administer Bromsite drops to both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye, following the same steps.
• Replace Cap: After using Bromsite, securely replace the cap on the bottle to prevent contamination.
• Wash Hands Again: Wash your hands again to remove any residue from the medication.
• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the frequency and duration of Bromsite use. Typically, Bromsite is used once daily, beginning one day prior to cataract surgery, continuing on the day of surgery, and for 14 days following surgery.

Remember, it’s important to use Bromsite exactly as prescribed by your doctor to ensure its effectiveness and minimize the risk of complications. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Bromsite, be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Bromsite is primarily indicated for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery. However, as with many medications, it’s essential to discuss any potential off-label uses with your doctor. Off-label use refers to using a medication for a purpose other than what it was approved for by regulatory agencies.

What special precautions should I follow?

Bromsite is a prescription eye drop used to treat inflammation and pain following cataract surgery. It contains the active ingredients bromfenac and bromfenac sodium. Here are some special precautions to follow when using Bromsite:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Use Bromsite exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use more or less than instructed.
• Wash Hands: Before using Bromsite, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent contamination of the eye drops.
• Avoid Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Bromsite. Wait at least 10 minutes after using the eye drops before reinserting contact lenses.
• Administer Correctly: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Avoid touching your eye with the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
• Wait Between Eye Medications: If you are using other eye medications along with Bromsite, wait at least 5 minutes between administering each medication.
• Potential Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as eye irritation, redness, itching, or blurred vision. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor.
• Allergic Reactions: If you are allergic to bromfenac or any other ingredients in Bromsite, inform your doctor before using the medication.
• Use in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using Bromsite. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits and risks before prescribing the medication.
• Storage: Store Bromsite at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Keep Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments scheduled by your doctor to monitor your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using Bromsite or any other medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Bromsite use. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, which can contribute to overall eye health and recovery from surgery.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Bromsite, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Bromsite, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone may experience them. Common side effects of Bromsite include:

• Eye Irritation: This may include burning, stinging, itching, or discomfort in the eye where the medication is applied.
• Blurred Vision: Some individuals may experience temporary blurred vision after using Bromsite.
• Sensitivity to Light: You may notice increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) while using Bromsite.
• Eye Redness: The whites of the eyes may appear red or bloodshot, which is usually mild and temporary.
• Eye Pain: Some individuals may experience mild eye pain or discomfort.
• Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect of Bromsite use, although they are typically mild.
• Foreign Body Sensation: You may feel as though there is something in your eye, such as a foreign body or grittiness.
• Dry Eye: Bromsite may cause or exacerbate symptoms of dry eye syndrome in some individuals.
• Increased Intraocular Pressure: In rare cases, Bromsite may cause an increase in intraocular pressure, which can lead to complications in individuals with certain eye conditions.
• Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Bromsite, which can manifest as swelling, itching, rash, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, individual responses to medications can vary, so not everyone will experience the same side effects or with the same severity. If you experience any bothersome or persistent side effects while using Bromsite, contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

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

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Bromsite, here are some important considerations:

• Storage: Store Bromsite at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as moisture can degrade the medication. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Be sure to keep Bromsite out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Do not flush Bromsite down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or local waste disposal company. Properly discard expired or unused medication by following local regulations for medication disposal. You can inquire with your pharmacist or local waste management authority for guidance on the proper disposal of Bromsite.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of accidental ingestion of Bromsite or overdose, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach pain, vomiting, or blurred vision.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Eye Exams: Even if you are using Bromsite for a specific eye condition or surgery, it’s important to continue attending regular eye exams as recommended by your eye doctor. Routine eye exams can help monitor your eye health and detect any changes or issues early on.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to monitor your response to Bromsite and address any concerns or side effects.
• Avoid Contamination: To prevent contamination, avoid touching the tip of the Bromsite bottle to any surface, including your eye. Do not share Bromsite with others, even if they have similar symptoms or underwent the same surgery.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including eye specialists and surgeons, about your use of Bromsite and any other medications you are taking.

By following these guidelines and being informed about storage, disposal, emergencies, and other important information, you can use Bromsite safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.