Dipivefrin Brand Name– AK-Pro | Propine
What is Dipivefrin
Dipivefrin a prodrug of epinephrine, is an adrenergic agonist used in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma.
Dipivefrin, as a prodrug, results in pharmacologic activity at much lower concentrations than epinephrine, resulting in a lower incidence of systemic cardiovascular side effects.
Dipivefrin can be used as monotherapy or in conjunction with other pressure lower ophthalmics. It is very useful in patients who exhibit intolerance to the side effects of ophthalmic epinephrine.
Dipivefrin reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) by roughly 20%. Dipivefrin is well tolerated in most patients; transient hyperemia and ocular burning or stinging are the main complaints.
Off-label, dipivefrin has been used for ocular hypertension.
Dipivefrin was approved by the FDA in January of 1982.
Indications
- glaucoma
- ocular hypertension
For the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension† or open-angle glaucoma
Side Effects
- blepharitis
- blurred vision
- bronchospasm
- conjunctivitis
- contact dermatitis
- corneal deposits
- dizziness
- headache
- hyperemia
- keratitis
- macular edema
- mydriasis
- ocular irritation
- ocular pain
- ocular pruritus
- photophobia
Monitoring Parameters
- intraocular pressure
- ophthalmologic exam
Contraindications
- aphakia
- breast-feeding
- children
- closed-angle glaucoma
- contact lenses
- pregnancy
- sulfite hypersensitivity
Interactions
There are no drug interactions associated with Dipivefrin products.
