Before using bimatoprost eye drops

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

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have had surgery on your eye to replace or remove the lens (such as in cataract removal).
• If you suffer from eye problems such as eye pain, dry eyes, blurred vision, irritation or inflammation.
• If you have severe asthma or your asthma is not well-controlled.
• If you wear contact lenses or use other eye drops.
• If you know you have low blood pressure or a slow pulse.
• 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 similar medicine.

• Note: these eye drops are not suitable for children.

How to use bimatoprost eye drops

1. Wash your hands well before using the eye drops.
2. Remove the cap.
3. Tilt your head back and pull the lower lid of your eye out to form a pocket.
4. Hold the container between your thumb and middle finger of the other hand and turn the container upside down near to your eye. Try not to touch the eye with the nozzle.
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops.
6. Close your eye and press a finger against the corner of the eye by the nose. Hold for 1 minute whilst you keep the eye closed.
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use bimatoprost in both eyes.
8. Replace the cap on the container. Try not to touch the applicator tip on any surface (including the eye or the fingers).
9. Wash your hands again.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use these eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor and read the manufacturer's information leaflet, before beginning your treatment. They are usually applied once daily in the evening.
• If you are using other eye drops, wait 5 minutes between using bimatoprost and your other eye drops.
• If you forget to use your eye drops, do not worry, just continue using them when your next dose is due.
• Bimatoprost 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 wear soft contact lenses, do not use these drops with your lenses in, as the drops contain a preservative that can discolour your lenses. Wait 15 minutes after using the drops before putting your lenses back in.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking or using.

Can bimatoprost 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.

How to store bimatoprost eye drops

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Eye drops only keep for 4 weeks once opened. After this time make sure you have a fresh supply.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Lumigan®, Allergan Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2008, accessed July 2009.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Ganfort®, Allergan Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2009, accessed July 2009.
• British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.