Zioptan (tafluprost) reduces pressure in the eye by increasing the amount of fluid that drains from the eye.
Zioptan eye drops are used to treat open-angle glaucoma or other causes of increased pressure inside the eye.
Zioptan may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Zioptan may cause a gradual change in the color of your eyes or eyelids and lashes. Color changes may be permanent even after your treatment ends, and may occur only in the eye being treated.
When using Zioptan tell your doctor right away if you have any eye injury or infection, sudden vision changes, or if you need to have any type of surgery, especially eye surgery.
Call your doctor at once if you have eye pain or redness, itchy or watery eyes, or increased sensitivity to light.
Before using Zioptan
You should not use Zioptan if you are allergic to tafluprost.
Zioptan may cause a gradual change in the color of your eyes or eyelids and lashes, as well as increased growth or thickness of your eyelashes. These color changes, usually an increase in brown pigment, occur slowly and you may not notice them for months or years. Color changes may be permanent even after your treatment ends, and may occur only in the eye being treated. This could result in a cosmetic difference in eye or eyelash color from one eye to the other.
To make sure Zioptan is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Zioptan will harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
It is not known whether tafluprost passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give Zioptan to anyone under 18 years old without medical advice.
How should I use Zioptan?
Use Zioptan eue drops exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Using more Zioptan than prescribed will not improve your condition, and may make this medicine less effective.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
To apply the eye drops:
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Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the Zioptan dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.
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Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
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Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.
Each single-use bottle of Zioptan is for one use only (in one or both eyes at one time). Throw the eye drop bottle away after one use, even if there is still some medicine left in it after using the eye drops.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any eye injury or infection, sudden vision changes, or if you need to have any type of surgery, especially eye surgery.
Store unopened cartons of Zioptan or the foil pouches in the refrigerator, do not freeze.
After opening the foil pouch, store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Once the pouch is opened, you must use the Zioptan eye drops within 28 days.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of Zioptan is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
What should I avoid?
Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.
Zioptan side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Zioptan: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Zioptan and call your doctor at once if you have:
Common Zioptan side effects may include:
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mild eye discomfort;
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blurred vision; or
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dry eyes.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Zioptan?
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on tafluprost used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
