Apraclonidine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic Solution

Generic Name: apraclonidine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Iopidine 1%

IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution contains apraclonidine hydrochloride, an alpha adrenergic agonist, in a sterile isotonic solution for topical application to the eye. Apraclonidine hydrochloride is a white to off‑white powder and is highly soluble in water. Its chemical name is 2-[(4‑amino-2,6 dichlorophenyl)imino] imidazolidine monohydrochloride with an empirical formula of C 9 H 11 Cl 3 N 4 and a molecular weight of 281.6.

Overview

IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution contains apraclonidine hydrochloride, an alpha adrenergic agonist, in a sterile isotonic solution for topical application to the eye. Apraclonidine hydrochloride is a white to off‑white powder and is highly soluble in water. Its chemical name is 2-[(4‑amino-2,6 dichlorophenyl)imino] imidazolidine monohydrochloride with an empirical formula of C 9 H 11 Cl 3 N 4 and a molecular weight of 281.6.

Uses

IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution is indicated to control or prevent post-surgical elevations in IOP that occur in patients after argon laser trabeculoplasty, argon laser iridotomy or Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy.

Dosage

One drop of IOPIDINE* 1% Ophthalmic Solution should be instilled in the scheduled operative eye one hour before initiating anterior segment laser surgery and a second drop should be instilled to the same eye immediately upon completion of the laser surgical procedure. Use a separate container for each single‑drop dose and discard each container after use.

Side Effects

The following adverse events, occurring in less than 2% of patients, were reported in association with the use of IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution in laser surgery: ocular injection, upper lid elevation, irregular heart rate, nasal decongestion, ocular inflammation, conjunctival blanching, and mydriasis. The following adverse events were observed in investigational studies dosing IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution once or twice daily for up to 28 days in non‑laser studies: Ocular Conjunctival blanching, upper lid elevation, mydriasis, burning, discomfort, foreign body sensation, dryness, itching, hypotony, blurred or dimmed vision, allergic response, conjunctival microhemorrhage.

Interactions

Interactions with other agents have not been investigated.

Warnings

FOR TOPICAL OPHTHALMIC USE ONLY. Not for injection or oral ingestion. IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution is contraindicated for patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy and for patients with hypersensitivity to any component of this medication or to clonidine.

Pregnancy

Apraclonidine HCl has been shown to have an embryocidal effect in rabbits when given in an oral dose of 3 mg/kg/day (150 times the maximum recommended human dose). Dose related maternal toxicity was observed in pregnant rats at 0.3 mg/kg/day (15 times the maximum recommended human dose). There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. IOPIDINE* 1% Ophthalmic Solution should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Storage

IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution as base is a sterile, isotonic, aqueous solution containing apraclonidine hydrochloride. Supplied as follows: 0.1 mL in plastic ophthalmic dispensers, packaged two per pouch. These dispensers are enclosed in a foil overwrap as an added barrier to evaporation. 0.1 mL (packaged two per pouch) NDC 82667‑200-01 Storage: Store at 2°C to 25°C (36°F‑77°F).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apraclonidine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic Solution used for?

IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution is indicated to control or prevent post-surgical elevations in IOP that occur in patients after argon laser trabeculoplasty, argon laser iridotomy or Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy.

What are the side effects of Apraclonidine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic Solution?

The following adverse events, occurring in less than 2% of patients, were reported in association with the use of IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution in laser surgery: ocular injection, upper lid elevation, irregular heart rate, nasal decongestion, ocular inflammation, conjunctival blanching, and mydriasis. The following adverse events were observed in investigational studies dosing IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution once or twice daily for up to 28 days in non‑laser studies: Ocular Conjunctival blanching, upper lid elevation, mydriasis, burning, discomfort, foreign body sensation, dryness, itching, hypotony, blurred or dimmed vision, allergic response, conjunctival microhemorrhage.

Can I take Apraclonidine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic Solution during pregnancy?

Apraclonidine HCl has been shown to have an embryocidal effect in rabbits when given in an oral dose of 3 mg/kg/day (150 times the maximum recommended human dose). Dose related maternal toxicity was observed in pregnant rats at 0.3 mg/kg/day (15 times the maximum recommended human dose). There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. IOPIDINE* 1% Ophthalmic Solution should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

What are the important warnings for Apraclonidine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic Solution?

FOR TOPICAL OPHTHALMIC USE ONLY. Not for injection or oral ingestion. IOPIDINE 1% Ophthalmic Solution is contraindicated for patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy and for patients with hypersensitivity to any component of this medication or to clonidine.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.