Carbachol (Into The Eye)

Carbachol (KAR-ba-kole)

Used to treat glaucoma.

Brand Name(s):

Isopto Carbachol
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to carbachol.

How to Use This Medicine:

Drop

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to. This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Wash your hands before and after using the medicine.
• Shake the eye drops well just before each use.
• Lie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket.
• To use the eye drops: Hold the dropper close to your eye with the other hand. Drop the correct number of drops into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball. Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute. Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye. Put the cap on the bottle right away. Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicines or drops in your eyes.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor if you have asthma, ulcers, an overactive thyroid, urinary tract blockage, Parkinson's disease, or blood pressure problems. Also tell your doctor if you have had a recent heart attack.
• This medicine may make it harder to see in the dark. Be careful if you drive at night.
• You should not use more of this medicine than your doctor ordered.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe irritation of the eye
• Irregular heartbeat or a feeling of faintness
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Stomach cramps or vomiting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Temporary burning, stinging or watering of the eye
• Short-term blurred vision
• Constricted or pinpoint pupils
• Mild headache
• Excessive sweating
• Diarrhea
• Need to go to the bathroom (urinate) a lot

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.