Why is this medication prescribed?

Netarsudil ophthalmic is a medication used to treat increased intraocular pressure (IOP) in people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Elevated intraocular pressure can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss if not properly managed. Netarsudil works by increasing the drainage of fluid from the eye, thereby reducing intraocular pressure.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how Netarsudil ophthalmic should be used:

• Dosage: The usual dosage is one drop of Netarsudil into the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening.
• Administration:
  • Wash your hands before handling the eye drops.
  • Tilt your head back and look upward.
  • Pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  • Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket.
  • Close your eyes gently and press a finger to the inner corner of the eye for about 1-2 minutes to prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and entering the bloodstream.
• Avoid Touching: Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands, to prevent contamination.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Netarsudil and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Other Eye Medications: If you are using other eye medications, there should be a time interval between the administration of different eye drops. Consult your doctor for guidance.
• Follow the Prescription: Use Netarsudil exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, and contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as eye redness, itching, or irritation.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and check for any side effects.

It’s important to note that this information is a general guideline, and you should always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about using Netarsudil ophthalmic, consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Netarsudil ophthalmic is primarily indicated for the treatment of increased intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. However, it’s essential to note that medications may sometimes be prescribed for “off-label” uses, which means uses not officially approved by regulatory authorities. If your doctor has prescribed Netarsudil for a condition other than glaucoma or ocular hypertension, they may have a specific reason based on your individual health needs.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions when using Netarsudil ophthalmic, here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies you may have, especially if you are allergic to netarsudil or any other components of the medication.
• Medical History: Provide your complete medical history, including any eye conditions, other medical conditions, and medications you are currently taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks and benefits of using Netarsudil during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Eye Conditions: If you have any other eye conditions, such as uveitis or inflammatory eye diseases, inform your doctor. Netarsudil may not be suitable for individuals with certain pre-existing eye conditions.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Netarsudil and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Systemic Absorption: Although the systemic absorption of Netarsudil is low, it can still affect other parts of the body. Inform your doctor of any systemic medications you are taking, as there may be potential interactions.
• Eye Injury or Surgery: If you experience an eye injury or plan to undergo eye surgery, inform your healthcare provider. They may need to adjust your treatment plan.
• Adverse Reactions: Be aware of potential side effects, including eye redness, itching, and conjunctival hemorrhage. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor.
• Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Netarsudil in pediatric patients have not been established. It is typically prescribed for adults.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of any concerns or changes in your health status. If you have questions about Netarsudil or its usage, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance based on your individual health needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, there are typically no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Netarsudil ophthalmic. However, if you have any concerns or questions about diet and medication interactions, it’s advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a dose of Netarsudil:

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
• Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Double Dose: Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. This can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Netarsudil ophthalmic, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience only mild effects. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and to promptly inform your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms. Common side effects of Netarsudil ophthalmic may include:

• Eye redness: This is a common side effect and may be temporary.
• Eye itching: Some individuals may experience itching or irritation in the eyes.
• Conjunctival hemorrhage: This refers to bleeding from small blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye.
• Corneal verticillata: This is the formation of a whorl-like pattern on the cornea, which may not affect vision.
• Eyelid erythema (redness): Redness of the eyelids may occur.
• Eye pain: Some individuals may experience mild eye discomfort or pain.
• Eyelash changes: Netarsudil may cause changes to the eyelashes, including increased length, thickness, and number.
• Blurred vision: Temporary blurred vision may occur after instilling the eye drops.

It’s important to note that serious side effects are rare, but they can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe eye pain
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Swelling or inflammation of the eye
• Changes in vision

These serious side effects may indicate a more severe reaction or complication that requires prompt medical intervention.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual responses can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, report any side effects promptly, and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your response to the medication. If you have concerns about side effects or the use of Netarsudil, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Netarsudil ophthalmic at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Avoid exposing the medication to extreme heat or freezing temperatures. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including the eyes and hands, to prevent contamination. Ensure that the dropper is kept clean.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store Netarsudil in a location where children and pets cannot access it.
• Discard Expired Medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use the medication if it has passed the expiration date. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an overdose or accidental ingestion of Netarsudil, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Eye Exams: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and check for any side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers, including eye specialists and general practitioners, about the use of Netarsudil, especially if you are undergoing any surgical procedures.
• Avoid Driving or Operating Machinery: Netarsudil may cause temporary blurred vision after administration. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision has returned to normal.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Netarsudil and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Systemic Absorption: While systemic absorption is low, inform your doctor of any systemic medications you are taking, as there may be potential interactions.
• Adverse Reactions: Be aware of potential side effects, and contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe eye pain, changes in vision, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them or your pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, or usage of Netarsudil ophthalmic.