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Brand name:

Naphcon-A

Pronounced: NAFF-kon ay
Generic ingredients: Naphazoline hydrochloride, Pheniramine maleate
Other brand name: Opcon-A

Why is this drug prescribed?

Naphcon-A, an eyedrop containing both a decongestant and an antihistamine, is used to relieve itchy, red eyes caused by ragweed, pollen, and animal hair.

Most important fact about this drug

If this medication causes changes in your vision, be careful when driving or performing other tasks that could be hazardous.

How should you use this medication?

Remove contact lenses before administering this medication. Do not use the solution if it becomes cloudy or changes color.

To administer the eyedrops, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pocket between your eye and the lid.
3. Hold the eyedrop bottle on your forehead or the bridge of your nose.
4. Do not touch the applicator tip to your eye or any other surface.
5. Tilt your head back and squeeze the medication into your eye.
6. Close your eyes gently and keep them closed for a minute or two.
7. Do not rinse the dropper.

--If you miss a dose...

Use this medication only as needed.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed bottle. Protect from light.

What side effects may occur?

Aside from temporarily enlarging your pupils, Naphcon is unlikely to cause side effects. However, overuse can cause reddening of the eyes.

Why should this drug not be prescribed?

Do not take Naphcon-A if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or are sensitive to any of its ingredients.

Do not use Naphcon-A if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or trouble urinating because of enlargement of the prostate gland.

Do not use this medication if you have glaucoma.

Special warnings about this medication

Contact your doctor before giving Naphcon-A to infants or children under 6 years of age. Swallowing this medication can cause stupor or coma and a serious drop in body temperature in an infant or child.

If your eyes hurt or continue to be red or irritated, if you experience changes in vision, if your eyes get worse, or if the itching and redness last more than 72 hours, stop using Naphcon-A and call your doctor.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Overdosage

Overdose from accidental oral use can have serious consequences, especially in young children. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.