How should I use homatropine ophthalmic?

Use homatropine ophthalmic eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after using your eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for 1 to 3 minutes to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct. If you are using more than one drop in the same eye or drops in both eyes, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops.

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye. Do not use any eye drop that is discolored or has particles in it. Store homatropine ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Flush the eye with water and seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a homatropine ophthalmic overdose include headache, fast heartbeat, dry mouth and skin, unusual drowsiness, and flushing.

What should I avoid while using homatropine ophthalmic?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Homatropine ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities. The effects of even one drop of this medication can last for up to 3 days. Be sure that your vision is clear before attempting any activity that could be dangerous. Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye. Homatropine ophthalmic may make your eyes more sensitive to light. Protect your eyes when you are going to be in bright light.

Homatropine ophthalmic eye drops contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), so do not wear soft contact lenses when the eye drops are being inserted.

What are the possible side effects of homatropine ophthalmic?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using homatropine ophthalmic and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• an irregular or fast heart rate;

• hallucinations or unusual behavior (especially in children); or

• a swollen or distended stomach (in infants).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use homatropine ophthalmic and talk to your doctor if you experience

• blurred vision,

• sensitivity to sunlight,

• stinging and burning, or

• swelling of the eyelids.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.