Uses of Brimonidine

Brimonidine is used in the treatment of ocular hypertension or glaucoma. It is also used to treat rosacea (redness of the facial skin).

Therapeutic Category

Brimonidine: Alpha adrenergic agonists

How Brimonidine works

Brimonidine works by decreasing the production of excessive eye fluids (aqueous humour) while simultaneously increasing their drainage. This reduces strain on the eyes and therefore decreases the elevated pressure within the eye.

Brimonidine also acts as potent vasoconstrictor. When applied on the skin, it causes narrowing of the small blood vessels present on the facial skin. This reduces blood flow to the skin which in turn reduces excessive skin redness and flushing.

Common side effects of Brimonidine

• eye redness, itching, burning or stinging sensation
• white spots on the whites of the eye
• blurred vision, feeling of something in the eye
• headache
• tiredness, weakness, drowsiness
• dry mouth
• erosion on eye surface, staining
• swollen or red eyelid, abnormal vision, sticky, watery eyes, sensitivity to light
• pain, irritation, whitening of the membrane covering the inside of the eyelid
• inflammation of the cornea (outer layer of the eye)
• nausea, vomiting, stomach and digestion problems
• cold-like symptoms, abnormal taste

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• If you experience allergic reactions (such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the eyes, eyelids, lips, mouth or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing)

Health Tips for Brimonidine

• Brimonidine is not recommended for use in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Therefore, consult your doctor before using it
• Do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines if you experience blurred vision, drowsiness or tiredness after using Brimonidine
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after using Brimonidine to prevent the risk of contamination and infection
• Remove contact lenses before using Brimonidine. Reinsert them only after 15 minutes to avoid interference with the medication