Brolene Eye Drops 0.1%

What are Brolene Eye Drops?

Brolene Eye Drops are an antimicrobial medication used to treat minor eye infections such as bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids). They contain propamidine isethionate (0.1%) which is an antiseptic that is effective against a range of bacteria and some fungi. By killing the bacteria or fungi responsible for the eye infection it helps to relieve symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discharge associated with these infections.

Conjunctivitis symptoms

Conjunctivitis is a common eye condition that can be caused by viruses and bacteria, it is important to note that Brolene can only treat bacterial conjunctivitis and will not help with viral conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis can go away on its own without treatment, but Brolene can help clear bacterial conjunctivitis in a few days. Conjunctivitis symptoms include:

• Redness in one or both eyes.
• Itchiness in one or both eyes.
• A gritty feeling in one or both eyes.

Crusting and sticky discharge can occur with bacterial conjunctivitis, but the symptom list alone cannot establish a diagnosis. Ask a pharmacist whether these drops are suitable; seek medical advice for eye pain, light sensitivity or changes in vision.

Blepharitis symptoms

There are two types of blepharitis:

• Anterior Blepharitis:Affects the outside front edge of the eyelid where the eyelashes are attached. Often associated with bacterial infections or dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows.
• Posterior Blepharitis:Affects the inner edge of the eyelid that touches the eyeball. Often associated with dysfunction of the meibomian glands in the eyelids.

Blepharitis can have a range of symptoms. These symptoms can affect one or both eyes and may vary in severity. Common symptoms include:

• Redness in one or both eyes or eyelids.
• Itchiness in one or both eyes.
• A gritty feeling in one or both eyes.
• Crusting around the eyelids.
• Dry eyes.
• Excessive tearing.
• Sticky eyelids.

If you experience any of the following: Severe pain, vision changes, sensitivity to light or your symptoms persist even with treatment, contact a healthcare professional.

How to use Brolene Eye Drops

Using the drops is simple and straightforward:

1. Wash your hands to prevent bacteria getting into your eyes.
2. Tilt your head backwards.
3. Gently pull down your lower eyelid.
4. Hold the dropper close to your eye without touching it.
5. Instill one-two drops into the pocket you have made using your lower eyelid.
6. Close your eyes and blink a few times to help the drops spread over your eye.
7. Repeat for your other eye if needed.
8. Perform the above 3-4 times a day for 2 days, if there is no improvement contact a healthcare professional.

Do not wear contact lenses during treatment. If symptoms worsen or do not begin to improve within two days, stop using the drops and see a doctor.

Conjunctivitis treatment

To help treat your conjunctivitis you should also:

• Wash your hands regularly with warm soapy water.
• Wash your pillow cases and face cloths in hot water and detergent.
• Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and put used tissues in the bin.
• Do not share towels and pillows.
• Do not rub your eyes.
• If only one eye is infected avoid touching it and then touching your other eye as it can pass the infection to your other eye.
• Throw away and replace any eye or face makeup you used while infected

Blepharitis treatment

To help treat your blepharitis you should also:

• Regularly cleaning your eyelids can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. You can use Blephaclean eyelid wipes to clean your eyelids.
• Applying warm compresses to the eyelids can help loosen crusts and improve gland function.

Side effects

Any side effects experienced should be mild and temporary:

• Stinging or burning in your eye
• Blurred vision

Stop using the drops and seek advice if you develop pain, irritation or changes in vision. Do not drive or use machinery while vision is blurred.

Alternatives

Chloramphenicol eye ointment is available if you are treating bacterial conjunctivitis.
If you are treating blepharitis you can also use Blephaclean eyelid wipes alongside the drops to clean your eyelids and prevent future infection.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use Brolene eye drops while pregnant?

  No, they are not recommended for use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Contact your doctor if you would like to treat an eye infection while pregnant.

• Can you buy Brolene eye drops over the counter?

  They are a pharmacy-only medicine, so it will require a short consultation with a pharmacist to make sure the treatment is right for you before it can be bought.

• How often should I use Brolene eye drops?

  You should use one or two drops 3-4 times a day for 2 days. If there is no improvement after 2 days contact a healthcare professional for further advice.

• Do Brolene eye drops expire?

  Yes, always check the expiry date of any medicines you are taking before you take them, the expiry date refers the end of the month.

• How long can I keep Brolene eye drops for when they have been opened?

  Use for up to 28 days after opening. Dispose of any remaining drops after 28 days.

• Can Brolene eye drops be used in children?

  The Brolene 0.1% propamidine leaflet gives directions for adults and children; it does not set the under-12 restriction previously stated here. Ask a pharmacist to check a child’s symptoms and suitability before treatment.