Bimatoprost eye drops

About Bimatoprost Eye Drops

This belongs to the group of medicines known as prostaglandin analogues.

Bimatoprost Eye Drops are used to treat glaucoma and other conditions which involve increased pressure in the eye.

The fluid within the eye is constantly being removed and replaced. If not enough fluid leaves the eye, then pressure builds up causing pain and discomfort and affecting the ability to see. Bimatoprost works by increasing the amount of fluid that leaves the eye which reduces the build up of pressure.

It is also sometimes known as: Lumigan. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Bimatoprost Eye Drops

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from asthma
• if you suffer from heart, kidney or liver problems
• if you wear soft contact lenses
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Bimatoprost Eye Drops

1. Wash your hands
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye out to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, trying not to touch the eye with the nozzle
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops
6. Close the eye, and keep the eye closed for a minute or two. If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use Bimatoprost in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with any surface (including the eye or the fingers)
9. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use Bimatoprost Eye Drops exactly as directed by your doctor and always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Bimatoprost Eye Drops may alter the colour of your eyes. If you notice they have changed contact your doctor for advice.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked.
• If you are using any other eye drops or ointments, leave at least five minutes between each one.
• If you wear contact lenses, they should be removed before each application and not put back in until at least 15 minutes afterwards.
• If your vision is blurred just after using the drops wait a while before you operate machinery or drive.
• Bimatoprost Eye Drops should be applied once a day (in the evening) or as directed by your doctor.
• Do not swallow Bimatoprost Eye Drops. If you or someone else has swallowed this preparation, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Always take the container or bottle with you if possible.
• Bimatoprost Eye Drops are for you. Never give them to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Can Bimatoprost Eye Drops cause problems?

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

Irritation in the eye(s), darkening, thickening and lengthening of the eyelashes, itching around the eyelid; shortness of breath, a dislike of bright lights or headaches.

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

How to store Bimatoprost Eye Drops

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Discard these eye drops four weeks after opening.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 08/02/2005