ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It can cause an allergic-type eye reaction over time.
What it's used for
- Glaucoma and high eye pressure
- Eye redness (low dose)
How to take it
- Wash your hands, tilt your head back, and put a drop in the pocket of the lower lid without touching the tip to your eye.
- Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops.
- Use as prescribed, often 2 to 3 times a day.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Dry mouth
- Red or itchy eyes
- Tiredness
Call your provider todayEye swelling, redness, or itching that keeps getting worse
Call 911A baby or young child is very sleepy or has trouble breathing after use
Warnings
- Not for children under 2 (glaucoma form).
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Alcohol and sedating medicines add to drowsiness.
- Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Brimonidine eye drops (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.