Drug Action
Apraclonidine is an alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist that lowers intra-ocular pressure by reducing aqueous humour formation. It is a derivative of clonidine.
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Drug reference
Apraclonidine is an alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist that lowers intra-ocular pressure by reducing aqueous humour formation. It is a derivative of clonidine.
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Control or prevention of postoperative elevation of intra- ocular pressure after anterior segment laser surgery ▶TO THE EYE ▶Adult: Apply 1 drop, 1 hour before laser procedure, then 1 drop, immediately after completion of procedure, 1% eye drops to be administered Short-term adjunctive treatment of chronic glaucoma in patients not adequately controlled by another drug ▶TO THE EYE ▶Adult: Apply 1 drop 3 times a day usually for maximum 1 month, 0.5% eye drops to be administered, may not provide additional benefit if patient already using two drugs that suppress the production of aqueous humour
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History of severe or unstable and uncontrolled cardiovascular disease
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Cerebrovascular disease. depression. heart failure. history of angina. hypertension. loss of effect may occur over time. Parkinson’s syndrome. Raynaud’s syndrome. recent myocardial infarction. reduction in vision in end-stage glaucoma (suspend treatment). severe coronary insufficiency. thromboangiitis obliterans. vasovagal attack
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→Appendix 1: apraclonidine
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▶Common or very common Eye disorders ▶Uncommon Bradycardia. conjunctival haemorrhage. diarrhoea. dry eye. eye discomfort. eye inflammation. gastrointestinal discomfort. irritability. libido decreased. nasal dryness. palpitations. postural hypotension. sensation abnormal. sleep disorders. syncope. vision disorders. vomiting ▶Rare or very rare Chest pain. dry mouth. fatigue. headache. hyperhidrosis. pain in extremity. pruritus. taste altered. temperature sensation altered SIDE-EFFECTS, FURTHER INFORMATION Since absorption may follow topical application, systemic effects may occur– see clonidine hydrochloride p. 156. Ocular intolerance Manufacturer advises withdrawal if eye pruritus, ocular hyperaemia, increased lacrimation, or oedema of the eyelids and conjunctiva occur.
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Manufacturer advises avoid—no information available.
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Manufacturer advises avoid—no information available.
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Manufacturer advises use with caution and monitor, including close monitoring of cardiovascular parameters—no information available.
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Use with caution in chronic renal failure.
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▶Monitor intra-ocular pressure and visual fields. ▶Monitor for excessive reduction in intra-ocular pressure following peri-operative use.
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There can be variation in the licensing of different medicines containing the same drug. Eye drops EXCIPIENTS: May contain Benzalkonium chloride ▶Iopidine (Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd) Apraclonidine (as Apraclonidine hydrochloride) 5 mg per 1 ml Iopidine 5mg/ml eye drops | 5 ml P £10.88 DT = £10.88 Apraclonidine (as Apraclonidine hydrochloride) 10 mg per 1 ml Iopidine 1% eye drops 0.25ml unit dose | 24 unit dose P £77.85 DT = £77.85
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Driving and skilled tasks Drowsiness may affect performance of skilled tasks (e.g. driving).
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Apply 1 drop, 1 hour before laser procedure,
First-line fragment. Read the complete Indications and Dose section above.
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Apply 1 drop 3 times a day usually for maximum
First-line fragment. Read the complete Indications and Dose section above.
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