What Is Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic and How Does It Work?
Oxymetazoline, ophthalmic is an over-the-counter (OTC) product used for temporary relief of ocular (eye) redness caused by irritation and for relief of burning or irritation caused by dry eyes.
Oxymetazoline, ophthalmic is available under the following different brand names: Visine L.R.
Dosages of Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic
- See package label
Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:
Relief of Eye Redness
Temporary relief of ocular redness caused by irritation and relief of burning or irritation caused by dry eyes
- Adults and children over 6 years: 1-2 drops to affected eye every 6 hours as needed
- Not to exceed 72 hours of use
- Children under 6 years: Safety and efficacy not established
Administration
- Remove contact lenses before use
- Do not use if this solution changes color or becomes cloudy
- Do not touch tip of container to any surface to avoid contamination
- Replace cap after each use
What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic?
Side effects of oxymetazoline, ophthalmic include:
- Transient eye irritation/burning/stinging
This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.
What Other Drugs Interact with Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic?
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider or pharmacist first.
- Oxymetazoline, ophthalmic has no listed severe interactions with other drugs.
- Oxymetazoline, ophthalmic has no listed serious interactions with other drugs.
- Oxymetazoline, ophthalmic has no listed moderate interactions with other drugs.
- Oxymetazoline, ophthalmic has no listed mild interactions with other drugs.
What Are Warnings and Precautions for Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic?
Warnings
This medication contains oxymetazoline, ophthalmic. Do not take Visine L.R. if you are allergic to oxymetazoline, ophthalmic or any ingredients contained in this drug.
Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
Effects of Drug Abuse
- No information available
Short-Term Effects
- See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic?”
Long-Term Effects
- See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Oxymetazoline, Ophthalmic?”
Cautions
- Discontinue and seek medical advice if the following occur: eye pain, changes in vision, redness or irritation of the eye lasts more than 72 hours
- May exacerbate glaucoma; use caution
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use oxymetazoline, ophthalmic with caution during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies are not available or neither animal nor human studies were done.
It is unknown if oxymetazoline, ophthalmic is distributed in milk.
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of a health professional before using over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.