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Naphazoline; Pheniramine Eye Solution

Naphazoline and pheniramine are a decongestant and an antihistamine to relieve itching and redness in your eyes. This medication is an eye solution. You can use a dropper to administer this medication into your eyes as directed. Remove your contact lenses before taking this medication.

What is this medication?

NAPHAZOLINE; PHENIRAMINE (naf AZ oh leen; fen IR a meen) treats allergy symptoms, such as red, itchy eyes. It works by blocking histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction. It also works by narrowing blood vessels in your eyes. This reduces swelling and irritation. It is a combination of a decongestant and an antihistamine.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): AK-Con-A, Naphcon A, Opcon-A, Visine Multi-Action Eye Allergy Relief, Visine-A

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Glaucoma
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Prostate disease
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to naphazoline, pheniramine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the label. Wash hands before and after use. Remove contact lenses before using. Shake well before using. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surfaces. Squeeze the prescribed drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be used in children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

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NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better within 72 hours or if they get worse. Do not use this medication for longer than directed by your care team.

Do not use this medication if it changes color or becomes cloudy.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Blurry vision
  • Eye irritation or itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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