What is oxymetazoline ophthalmic?
Oxymetazoline ophthalmic is a vasoconstrictor. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the eyes.
Oxymetazoline ophthalmic is used to relieve redness, burning, irritation, and dryness of the eye caused by wind, sun, and other minor irritants.
Oxymetazoline ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about oxymetazoline ophthalmic?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it. Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic without your doctor's advice if you have glaucoma.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medication if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder.
Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic for longer than 3 days in a row without a doctor's advice. Call your doctor if your eye symptoms do not improve or if they get worse while using this oxymetazoline ophthalmic..
Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses. Oxymetazoline ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using oxymetazoline ophthalmic before putting your contact lenses in.
Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using oxymetazoline ophthalmic?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it. Do not use oxymetazoline ophthalmic without your doctor's advice if you have glaucoma.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medication if you have:
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether oxymetazoline ophthalmic is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether oxymetazoline ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.