Information About Acular Pf

Common uses
Acular Pf is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent used to treat itchy eyes and swelling caused by seasonal allergies. It also may be used to relieve eye swelling following cataract surgery.

Prior to Use
Be aware that pre-existing medical conditions, or taking additional medications could interfere with the effectiveness of this one. Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. If you are taking any of the following, your dose or condition may need regular supervision: corticosteroids such as prednisone, "blood thinners" such as warfarin or heparin, cyclosporine, methotrexate, or aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions including other eye problems, previous eye surgery, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, bleeding problems, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially aspirin or aspirin-like medicines, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. If you have questions or concerns about Acular Pf, be sure to let your physician or pharmacist know.

Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Acular Pf. TO USE THIS MEDICINE: first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back and with your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close your eyes. Do not blink and keep your eyes closed for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. To prevent germs from entering your medicine, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface, including your eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Keep the container tightly closed. If you are using other eye medicines wait at least 5 minutes before using applying them to the eye. Store Acular Pf at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C), away from heat and light. If the solution becomes discolored, Acular Pf should be discarded. If you miss a dose of Acular Pf and you are using it regularly, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Warnings
Do not use Acular Pf if you have had a severe allergic reaction to aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin or to a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (such as ibuprofen or naproxen). A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to Acular Pf or if a certain medicine is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine, contact your physician or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose or use Acular Pf for longer than prescribed. Doing so may increase your risk for side effects, some which may be serious. Do not wear contact lenses while using Acular Pf. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days and consult your physician if they worsen. Also, tell your physician if you have a tendency to bleed easily. Women, if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your physician the benefits and risks of using Acular Pf during pregnancy. Avoid using Acular Pf late in pregnancy. The effects of Acular Pf on breast milk is not known. If you are or will be breast-feeding while using Acular Pf, consult your pharmacist or physician to discuss the risks to your baby.

Potential Side Effects
Mild burning and stinging may occur when Acular Pf is first applied. This feeling usually disappears in a few minutes. Side effects, which may occur during treatment, include eye redness, eye irritation, or headache. Consult your physician if they do not go away or if they bring you difficulties. Consult your physician immediately if you experience continuous pain, burning, stinging, redness, or swelling around the eyes. Contact your physician immediately if you experience any sign of infection in the eye. An allergic reaction to Acular Pf is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed. Acular Pf may be harmful if swallowed.

Additional information
Do not let anyone else use Acular Pf. Do not take Acular Pf to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children.