Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost
Uses of Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost
Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost is primarily used to manage elevated intraocular pressure in patients suffering from open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It falls under the category of prostaglandin analogues.
By reducing the intraocular pressure, it aids in preventing optic nerve damage and vision loss associated with these conditions.
Side effects of Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost
Eye irritation
Eye dryness
Eyelash growth, thickening, and darkening
Changes in iris pigmentation
Lid pigmentation changes
How Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost works
Benzalkonium Chloride is an antiseptic and used for skin disinfection and wound irrigation. It is an antimicrobial agent used to maintain the sterility of the eye drops solution and prevent bacterial contamination in the product. It does not directly reduce eye pressure.
Bimatoprost, a prostaglandin F2α analogue, increases the outflow of eye fluid known as aqueous humour. This action reduces intraocular (eye) pressure and helps manage glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost is available in the form of eye drops administered through the ocular route.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medicine is meant for adults and children over 16 years of age.
Contraindications
This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to bimatoprost, benzalkonium chloride, or any inactive ingredient in the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with active intraocular inflammation or risk factors for macular oedema.
Other Medications to Avoid
This combination may interact with other prostaglandin analogs (such as latanoprost and travoprost), affecting the overall efficacy and potentially leading to additive effects on eye pressure.
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose involving excessive application of this eye drops may lead to increased redness, discomfort, or irritation in the eyes. If these symptoms occur, consult your doctor.
If you miss a dose of Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
In case you happen to put a few extra drops of this medicine in your eye, do not panic. Rinse your eyes with clean water at room temperature. If any symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Adjusting the timing of application may help manage minor side effects.
Staying hydrated by drinking adequate water may alleviate eye dryness or irritation.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
This medication may cause transient visual changes such as blurred vision. You should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision is clear.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost should be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding only under the advice of a doctor. The potential risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor before use.
Caution in Other Conditions
Caution is advised for patients with severe asthma or compromised respiratory function, particularly because systemic absorption could enhance respiratory symptoms. Patients who have recently undergone eye surgery should use this medication under close medical supervision to monitor for adverse effects.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
It is beneficial to maintain a healthy lifestyle that supports overall eye health when managing conditions like glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Include foods rich in antioxidants such as leafy greens, berries, and nuts which can support eye health.
Regular physical activity can help reduce overall pressure levels in the body, including intraocular pressure.
Avoid excessive caffeine and high-sodium foods as they can potentially increase eye pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Can Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost change the colour of my eyes?
Yes, one of the side effects of using Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost can be an increase in brown pigmentation of the iris which is likely to be permanent.
Is Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost safe for children?
The safety and efficacy of Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost have not been established in paediatric patients under 16 years of age. It is advised to consult your doctor for appropriate treatment options.
Can Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost cause any changes in my eyelashes?
Yes, long-term use of Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost may cause changes in your eyelashes such as increased growth, thickening, and darkening. These changes are usually reversible upon discontinuation of treatment.
Can I use Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost if I have asthma?
Patients with severe asthma or compromised respiratory function should use Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost with caution under close medical supervision.
Is Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost is considered Pregnancy Category C, meaning the risks and benefits should be weighed carefully in pregnant women as the effects on the foetus are unknown. It is not known if the medication is excreted in human breast milk. Nursing mothers should either discontinue nursing or not use the medication after consulting their doctor.
Is Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost a steroid-based medication?
No, Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost is not a steroid-based medication. It belongs to a class of medications known as prostaglandin analogues which work by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye.
Can I continue wearing contact lenses while using Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost?
Contact lenses should be removed before administering the eye drops. They may be reinserted 15 minutes after use as Benzalkonium Chloride may be absorbed by soft contact lenses.
Benzalkonium Chloride + Bimatoprost in other salts
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