Generic name: brimonidine ophthalmic [ bri-MO-ni-deen-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand names: Alphagan P, Lumify
Drug class: Ophthalmic glaucoma agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 23, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is brimonidine ophthalmic?

Brimonidine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to reduce pressure inside the eyes in people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The Alphagan P brand of this medicine is available only with a prescription.

The Lumify brand of brimonidine ophthalmic is available without a prescription, and is used to relieve eye redness and irritation.

Alphagan P is for use in adults and children as young as 2 years old. Lumify is for use in adults and children who are at least 5 years old.

Brimonidine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Brimonidine ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• eye pain or increased watering;

• vision changes; or

• severe swelling, redness, burning, or discomfort in or around your eye.

Common side effects of Alphagan P may include:

• mild itching, redness, burning, or other irritation of your eyes;

• dry mouth, blurred vision; or

• drowsiness, tiredness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use brimonidine ophthalmic if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart problems, circulation problems;

• coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);

• low blood pressure;

• depression; or

• Raynaud's syndrome, Buerger disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How should I use brimonidine ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

If you wear contact lenses, use the drops at least 10 minutes before inserting your lenses.

Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.

If you are using this medicine to treat eye redness or irritation, call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid looks cloudy, has changed colors, or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any eye injury or infection, or if you need to have any type of surgery, especially eye surgery.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of brimonidine ophthalmic is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using brimonidine ophthalmic?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect brimonidine ophthalmic?

Using brimonidine ophthalmic with other drugs that make you drowsy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• an antidepressant; or

• heart or blood pressure medication.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect brimonidine ophthalmic, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the difference between Lumify and Alphagan P?

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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