PILOCARPINE

• Chronic open-angle glaucoma
• Acute angle-closure glaucoma

• Acute iritis
• Hypersensitivity
• Anterior uveitis
• Acute uveitis
• Some forms of secondary glaucoma

Systemic side-effects are rare following ocular application. Ocular side effects include:

• Burning, itching, stinging, pain in the eyes
• Blurred vision
• Conjuctival vascular congestion
• Myopia
• Vitreous haemorrhage
• Retinal detachment
• Pupillary block
• Headache
• Brow ache
• Ciliary spasm
• Sensitisation of the eye lids
• Decreases in visual acuity in poor illumination

• Do not exceed the stated dose
• Discard any remaining solution 28 days since first opening of container
• In case of blurred vision, do not drive until vision is clear
• The dropper tip should not touch any surface

• Can be used

• Can be used

• Do not use after angle-closure surgery because of a risk of posterior synechiae forming
• Ophthalmic pilocarpine may be systemically absorbed
• Only use in pregnancy and breast-feeding if potential benefit outweighs risk
• Systemic absorption may occur in patients receiving high doses. Therefore use with caution in patients with bronchial asthma, peptic ulceration, urinary tract obstruction, Parkinson's disease, acute heart failure and hypertension
• Perform a fundus examination in all patients before starting pilocarpine therapy since retinal detachment has been associated with the use of miotics in susceptible patients and those with existing retinal disease
• Carry out regular monitoring of visual fields and intra-ocular pressure in patients on long-term therapy