Dipivéfrine
Dipivéfrine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Dipivéfrine is a brand name. Its generic name is Dipivefrin.
Introduction
Dipivéfrine is a prodrug which is used to treat open angle glaucoma. It is mostly used to reduce intraocular pressure. Dipivéfrine helps to decrease IOP (intraocular pressure) by increasing outflow of aqueous humor from the eye.
Uses
Dipivéfrine is used to treat open angle glaucoma, a condition in which the pressure in the eye increases and can eventually cause blindness. Dipivéfrine can be used alone or in combination with other medications to reduce IOP (intraocular pressure).
Mechanism of Action
Dipivéfrine is a prodrug that is converted by esterases into the active metabolite, epinephrine. Epinephrine then stimulates beta-adrenoceptors on the ciliary epithelium of the eye, causing increased outflow of aqueous humor from the eye, thereby decreasing IOP.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effects of Dipivéfrine can be seen within minutes after administration. Peak effects usually occur within 4-6 hours and last for approximately 12 hours.
Absorption
Dipivéfrine is rapidly hydrolyzed to epinephrine that is then absorbed in the eye, leading to an increase in the outflow of aqueous humor.
Route of Elimination
Dipivéfrine is rapidly hydrolyzed to epinephrine in the eye which is then rapidly eliminated in the urine.
Dosage
The usual starting dose of Dipivéfrine is 0.1-0.125% eye drops, which should be instilled 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) twice daily. The dose may be increased by the physician as needed (up to 0.25% drops).
Administration
Dipivéfrine is administered as eye drops which should be instilled in the affected eye(s) twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Dipivéfrine include burning or stinging sensation in the eyes, eye redness, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea or vomiting, and constipation. More serious side effects include rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat.
Toxicity
Overdose of Dipivéfrine can result in excessive stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. Symptoms of an overdose include an irregular or rapid heartbeat, seizures, jitters, tremors, nausea, vomiting, headache, difficulty breathing, and hypertension.
Precaution
Patients should be advised to use Dipivéfrine only as prescribed and should not stop taking it without consulting their healthcare provider. Patients should be aware of possible interactions with other medications, including those taken by the mouth, and should be monitored for signs of toxicity. Patients should also be advised to avoid contact with any irritating substance, including smoke or alcohol, while taking Dipivéfrine.
Interaction
Dipivéfrine may interact with other medications, including beta-blockers and tricyclic antidepressants. Patients should discuss all medications they are taking with their healthcare provider.
Disease Interaction
Dipivéfrine may worsen the symptoms of certain medical conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and diabetes mellitus. It is important to tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these conditions.
Drug Interaction
Dipivéfrine may interact with certain drugs, including beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, and MAO inhibitors. Patients should discuss all medications they are taking, the potential for drug interactions, and its associated risks.
Food Interactions
No special dietary restrictions are known with use of Dipivéfrine.
Pregnancy Use
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Dipivéfrine in pregnant women. The use of Dipivéfrine during pregnancy should be avoided unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risks. It is important to tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Lactation Use
It is not known if Dipivéfrine is excreted in human milk. The use of Dipivéfrine during lactation should be avoided unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risks. It is important to tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Acute Overdose
An overdose of Dipivéfrine may result in excessive stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. Symptoms of an overdose include an irregular or rapid heartbeat, seizures, jitters, tremors, nausea, vomiting, headache, difficulty breathing, and hypertension. Treatment of an acute overdose may include symptomatic and supportive measures.
Contraindication
Dipivéfrine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Dipivéfrine or to any of its components, as well as in patients with severe hypertension or tachycardia, or coronary artery disease.
Use Direction
Dipivéfrine should be given as prescribed by your doctor. The usual starting dose of Dipivéfrine is 0.1-0.125% eye drops, which should be instilled 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) twice daily. The dose may be increased by the physician as needed (up to 0.25% drops).
Storage Condition
Dipivéfrine should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and light. It should also be kept away from children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
Not Available
Half Life
The half-life of Dipivéfrine is approximately 2.1 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of Dipivéfrine from the body is not known.
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