Metipranolol Ophthalmic
(met i pran' oh lol)

Other Names
OptiPranolol

WHY is this medication prescribed?

Metipranolol is used to treat glaucoma, a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision. Metipranolol decreases the pressure in the eye.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

HOW should this medicine be used?

Metipranolol comes as eyedrops. Metipranolol eyedrops usually are applied twice a day, at evenly spaced intervals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Metipranolol controls glaucoma but does not cure it. Continue to use metipranolol even if you feel well. Do not stop using metipranolol without talking to your doctor.

For eyedrop installation instructions, click here.

What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?

Before using metipranolol eyedrops,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to metipranolol, beta blockers, or any other drugs.

• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other eye medications; beta blockers such as atenolol (Tenormin), carteolol (Cartrol), labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate), metoprolol (Lopressor), nadolol (Corgard); propranolol (Inderal); sotalol (Betapace); or timolol (Blocadren); quinidine (Quinidex, Quinaglute Dura-Tabs); verapamil (Calan, Isoptin); and vitamins.

• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had thyroid, heart, or lung disease; congestive heart failure; or diabetes.

• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using metipranolol, call your doctor immediately.

• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using metipranolol.

• if you are using another eyedrop medication, use the eye medications at least 10 minutes apart.

What should I do if I FORGET A DOSE?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What SIDE EFFECTS can this medication cause?

Although side effects from metipranolol are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• stinging or burning of the eye
• brow ache
• eye tearing
• sensitivity to light
• blurred vision after using the drops

If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using metipranolol and call your doctor immediately:

• skin rash
• eye pain
• swelling in or around the eyes
• vision problems
• difficulty breathing
• rapid or strong heartbeat
• abnormal pulse
• headache
• dizziness
• depression
• fainting

What STORAGE CONDITIONS are needed for this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not use the eyedrops if the solution has turned brown, is cloudy, or contains particles; obtain a fresh bottle. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will order certain eye tests to check your response to metipranolol.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.