Why is this medication prescribed?

Unoprostone ophthalmic is a medication used to treat certain eye conditions, such as open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Unoprostone is a prostaglandin analog that works by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye, thereby reducing intraocular pressure.

• Open-Angle Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can cause damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or blindness. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma and is characterized by an increase in intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye). Unoprostone ophthalmic is used to reduce intraocular pressure, helping to manage and slow down the progression of open-angle glaucoma.
• Ocular Hypertension: Ocular hypertension refers to elevated pressure within the eye that is not associated with any signs of glaucoma damage. However, high intraocular pressure is a risk factor for the development of glaucoma. Unoprostone ophthalmic is also prescribed for the treatment of ocular hypertension to lower intraocular pressure and reduce the risk of developing glaucoma.

How should this medicine be used?

The information provided here is based on general guidelines, and it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s specific instructions for using Unoprostone Ophthalmic. Always use the medication exactly as prescribed. The usual dosage and administration instructions are as follows:

• Dosage: The typical dosage for Unoprostone Ophthalmic is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart.
• Administration:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the eye drops to prevent contamination.
  • Tilt your head back or lie down and look upward.
  • Pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  • Hold the dropper above the eye and instill the prescribed number of drops into the pocket. Be careful not to touch the eye, eyelid, or surrounding areas with the dropper tip.
  • Close your eyes gently and apply light pressure to the corner of your eye near the nose for about 1-2 minutes. This helps prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and being absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying the eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your contact lenses.
• Other Eye Medications: If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applying different eye drops.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Storage: Store the medication as directed on the packaging. Typically, Unoprostone Ophthalmic should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Duration of Use: Continue using Unoprostone Ophthalmic for the full prescribed duration, even if you start to feel better. Do not stop using the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Regular Eye Exams: Attend regular eye check-ups as recommended by your eye care professional.

Always inform your healthcare provider about any side effects or concerns you may have while using Unoprostone Ophthalmic. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. This information is a general guide, and specific instructions may vary based on your individual health condition and your doctor’s recommendations.

Other uses for this medicine

While unoprostone ophthalmic is primarily indicated for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other conditions or off-label uses based on their clinical judgment. If there have been updates or new indications since last update, your healthcare provider would have the most current information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to unoprostone or any other medications. This is important to prevent allergic reactions.
• Medical history: Provide a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have a history of eye problems (other than glaucoma), other eye medications, or any other medical conditions.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks and benefits of using unoprostone during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it’s generally recommended to remove them before using unoprostone eye drops. You can reinsert them after waiting for a specified period (usually 15 minutes). Confirm this with your healthcare provider.
• Eye conditions: If you have other eye conditions or if you experience changes in vision, eye pain, or discomfort while using unoprostone, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Systemic effects: Although unoprostone is primarily applied to the eyes, there is a possibility of systemic absorption. Inform your healthcare provider of any changes in health or unexpected side effects.
• Follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your eye care specialist are essential to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and to address any concerns or side effects.

As medication information can change, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most up-to-date and personalized guidance on the use of unoprostone ophthalmic. If there have been any developments or changes in recommendations since my last update, your healthcare provider will be aware of them.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of unoprostone ophthalmic eye drops. However, it’s crucial to follow the general instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s prescribing information. Always consult with your healthcare professional or pharmacist for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Regarding missed doses:

• If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Double dose caution: Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Unoprostone ophthalmic, like any medication, may cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. Additionally, the information provided here is based on general knowledge as of last update, and there may have been updates or changes since then.

Common side effects of unoprostone ophthalmic may include:

• Eye irritation: This could include burning, stinging, itching, or redness.
• Blurred vision: Temporary changes in vision may occur after using the eye drops.
• Eyelash changes: Unoprostone may cause increased growth and thickness of eyelashes.
• Darkening of the eyelid or the skin around the eye: This is generally a cosmetic effect and is reversible upon discontinuation of the medication.
• Foreign body sensation: Some people may feel as if there is something in their eye.
• Conjunctival hyperemia: This refers to an increased redness of the eye due to the dilation of blood vessels on the eye’s surface.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect.
• Cold-like symptoms: This could include a runny or stuffy nose.
• Systemic side effects: While unoprostone is primarily applied to the eyes, there is a possibility of systemic absorption, which could potentially lead to side effects affecting other parts of the body. However, the systemic effects are generally minimal with topical ophthalmic use.

It’s important to report any unusual or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider. If you experience severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

This list is not exhaustive, and there may be other side effects associated with unoprostone ophthalmic. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most up-to-date and personalized information based on your specific health situation.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store unoprostone ophthalmic eye drops at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Follow the specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Do not freeze: Avoid freezing the medication, as this could affect its stability and efficacy.
• Keep the container tightly closed: To prevent contamination and maintain the integrity of the eye drops, make sure the cap is securely closed when not in use.
• Keep out of reach of children: Store medications in a location that is inaccessible to children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of the medication according to local regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or if the medication is accidentally ingested, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe headache, eye pain, increased tearing, and other potential side effects. If possible, have the medication packaging or information available to provide details to healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Regular follow-up appointments: Attend regular check-ups with your eye care specialist to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and address any concerns.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure all healthcare providers you consult are aware of all the medications, including eye drops, that you are using. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
• Avoid contamination: Do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface to prevent contamination. Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
• Contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using unoprostone ophthalmic. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Follow instructions: Follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or frequency without consulting them.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most up-to-date and accurate information related to the storage, disposal, and emergency procedures for unoprostone ophthalmic. If there have been any updates or changes since last update, your healthcare provider will have the latest information.