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Metipranolol eye drops

  • These eye drops do not contain a preservative and are for a single dose only.
  • If your eye becomes painful and red after using the drops, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.

About metipranolol eye drops

Type of medicine Beta-blocker eye preparation
Used for Glaucoma
Also called Minims® Metipranolol
Available as Single use eye drops (preservative free)

Metipranolol is used to treat glaucoma. Glaucoma is caused by a blockage in the eye, which prevents fluid leaving the eye, causing pressure to build up within the eye. This can cause pain and discomfort.

Metipranolol works by reducing the production of fluid in the eye, reducing the pressure.

Metipranolol eye drops do not contain any preservative and are supplied in a container which is for a single dose only.

Before using metipranolol eye drops

Before using metipranolol eye drops make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from heart problems.
  • If you suffer from asthma or have ever suffered from any other breathing problems.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use metipranolol eye drops

Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet. Use metipranolol eye drops exactly as your doctor has told you. The dose is usually one drop into the affected eye twice daily.

  1. Wash your hands well before use.
  2. Remove the Minims® unit from the wrapping and twist off the cap.
  3. Look upwards and gently pull down the lower eyelid with one hand to form a pocket.
  4. Hold the unit between the thumb and finger of the other hand. Hold it near to the eye, but without touching the eye.
  5. Apply enough pressure to the unit to release one drop into the pocket.
  6. Close the eye, and keep it closed for a minute or so.
  7. If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop.
  8. Throw away the Minims® unit even if some solution is left.
  9. Wash your hands.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are using.
  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
  • Do not stop using these eye drops without speaking to your doctor first.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can metipranolol eye drops cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Burning or stinging, redness, blurred vision This quickly passes, but do not drive, operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous, when you are not able to see clearly
Headache, unsteadiness, weakness If troublesome, speak to your doctor

Important: If you develop a painful red eye contact your doctor straight away.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store metipranolol eye drops

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Minims® Metipranolol, Chauvin Pharmaceuticals Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Revised August 2002, accessed 21 August 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008 DocID:
3655		 DocRef:
dils3380		 Last Updated:
27 Oct 2008		 Date of Next Review:
27 Oct 2010		 Version:
22
Patient UK Current Health News




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PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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