Overview
Brimonidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist used primarily to lower intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It reduces aqueous humor production and increases uveoscleral outflow.
Mechanism of Action
Brimonidine selectively stimulates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the eye, which reduces aqueous humor production and increases uveoscleral outflow, thereby lowering intraocular pressure.
Indications
- Reduction of intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma
- Ocular hypertension
- Management of facial erythema of rosacea (topical gel formulation)
Dosage
Ophthalmic solution: One drop in affected eye(s) three times daily, approximately 8 hours apart. Topical gel for rosacea: Apply thin layer to affected areas once daily.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to brimonidine or any component of the formulation
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy
- Infants and children under 2 years of age (ophthalmic solution)
- Patients with hypersensitivity to brimonidine tartrate
Side Effects
- Ocular hyperemia
- Ocular pruritus
- Burning/stinging sensation
- Foreign body sensation
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue/drowsiness
- Ocular allergic reactions
- Conjunctival follicles
Interactions
- CNS depressants (additive sedative effects)
- Antihypertensive agents (additive hypotensive effects)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (may reduce brimonidine's effect)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (contraindicated)