Are you also finding it a little difficult to read the newspaper or a message on your phone after turning 40? Many people only notice this problem when they have to hold a book or newspaper a little away from their eyes. This is a common condition that many people experience as they age. So today we are going to talk about a special eye solution that can be used as a solution to this.
What is this Pilocarpine eye solution?
Simply put, Pilocarpine is an eye medication that treats age-related nearsightedness. In medicine, we call this condition Presbyopia .
Think of it like a camera. The lens in it moves back and forth as needed to allow us to see clearly up close and far away. But as we age, this lens loses its flexibility. That's why it becomes difficult for us to read things up close, especially small print.
So what this Pilocarpine eye drops does is temporarily shrink the pupil of our eye. When that happens, the way the light that comes into the eye is focused changes, and things that are close up start to be seen clearly . This is the basic function of this medicine.
What should I tell the doctor before using this medicine?
It is very important to tell your doctor about your medical history before using any medication. Especially before using this Pilocarpine eye solution, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| The situation that affects you | Description |
|---|---|
| Eye diseases | If you have a history of iritis or retinal detachment. |
| Contact Lenses | If you wear contact lenses, tell your doctor. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to pilocarpine or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is essential to seek medical advice before using this medicine. |
How exactly do you use this eye drop?
Since this is an eye medication, it is very important to use it correctly.
1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after using the medicine.
2. Prepare: Tilt your head back slightly and gently pull down your lower eyelid with your index finger. This will create a small pouch.
3. Apply the medication: Without letting the dropper tip of the medication bottle touch your eye, fingertips, or anywhere else, apply the number of drops of medication prescribed by the doctor into the pouch made from your eyelid.
4. Close your eyes: Spread the medicine over your eyes, and close your eyes slowly. Do not forcefully close your eyes .
5. Apply gentle pressure: With your finger, gently press the inner corner between your eye and nose for about a minute or two. This will help keep the medicine in the eye, preventing it from flowing down your throat.
6. Use only as directed. Do not use more than the amount prescribed by your doctor.
If you are using other medications in your eyes, you should wait at least 5 minutes after applying one medication before applying the other medication.
What side effects can be expected?
As with any medication, there are some side effects that can occur. Some of them should be reported immediately, while others are not so serious.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Eye changes | New or worsening eye pain, redness, inflammation, or discharge. |
| Sudden change in vision | Sudden loss or decrease in vision in one or both eyes. |
| Things to inform the doctor if they persist | |
| Blurred vision | Slightly blurred vision or difficulty seeing at a distance. |
| Eye strain | Feeling tired in the eyes. |
| Headache | Slight headache. |
| Tears flowing from the eyes | Increased tearing after applying medication. |
Things to be careful about when using this medicine
- Avoid driving: This medicine may cause blurred vision at times. It may also make it difficult to see, especially at night . Therefore, avoid doing activities that require clear vision, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know exactly how this medicine affects you.
- Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the medication. You can reinsert them 10 minutes after applying the medication.
- Medical Checkups: Go to your doctor at regular intervals and get your eyes checked. Tell your doctor if your symptoms don't improve or if they get worse.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at the next scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If you think you have overdosed on this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. You can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital if necessary.
Take-Home Message
- Pilocarpine is an eye drop that treats presbyopia, a condition that occurs with age.
- It is imperative that you tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies before using this medicine.
- Use only the prescribed dose and in the correct manner as prescribed by your doctor.
- Be aware of side effects such as blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night. Avoid driving in such cases.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
- If you have any questions about this medicine or your condition, always talk to your doctor.
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