Zioptan unit dose eye drops (Tafluprost)

Zioptan eye drops are called Saflutan in Europe.

Information about Zioptan Unit Dose Eye Drops (Tafluprost)

Zioptan is a prescription eye drop medication containing Tafluprost, a prostaglandin analog. It is used to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in individuals with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. By reducing IOP, it helps prevent damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Zioptan is available in single-dose vials, making it convenient for patients to use without the need for preservatives, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Product Highlights

• Zioptan is used to lower intraocular pressure in individuals with open-angle glaucoma, a common type of glaucoma that develops gradually without noticeable symptoms.
• Zioptan is used in patients with ocular hypertension, a condition where the pressure inside the eye is higher than normal, increasing the risk of glaucoma.
• By lowering intraocular pressure, Zioptan helps reduce the risk of optic nerve damage and subsequent vision loss due to glaucoma.

Key Ingredient

• Tafluprost

Key Benefits

• The primary benefit of Zioptan is its ability to lower intraocular pressure, which is crucial for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
• By controlling intraocular pressure, Zioptan helps protect the optic nerve from damage and prevents the progression of glaucoma-related vision impairment.
• The single-dose vial design ensures no preservatives are included, making it less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, particularly for patients with sensitive eyes.
• The unit-dose vials make it easier to use and reduce the risk of contamination, ensuring a clean and accurate dose every time.
• Zioptan is an effective option for the long-term management of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Direction of Use

• The usual recommended dose of Zioptan is one drop in the affected eye(s) once daily, preferably in the evening.
• Administration:
• Wash hands thoroughly before using the eye drops.
• Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Hold the unit-dose vial upside down and squeeze one drop into the lower eyelid.
• Close your eye gently and keep it closed for about 1-2 minutes to allow the medication to be absorbed.
• Dispose of the vial after use (do not reuse).
• If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you recall, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not use two doses to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the unopened unit-dose vials in the refrigerator. After opening, store the vial at room temperature and use it immediately.

Safety Concerns

• Although Zioptan is preservative-free, some individuals may experience temporary eye irritation, stinging, or redness after use.
• Long-term use of Zioptan can cause a gradual increase in iris pigmentation (the colored part of the eye), particularly in patients with light-colored eyes. This change is usually permanent but harmless.
• Some patients may notice increased length, thickness, and pigmentation of eyelashes in the treated eye.
• If you have dry eye syndrome or other eye conditions, Zioptan may exacerbate symptoms. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. 
• Zioptan should be used with caution in patients who wear contact lenses. Take out your contact lenses before applying the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. 
• While Zioptan is primarily used topically, systemic absorption can occur, so it should be used cautiously in patients with a history of heart or lung disease.
• Zioptan should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if Tafluprost passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before using Zioptan if you are breastfeeding.

Avoid Zioptan Unit Dose Eye Drops (Tafluprost) If

• Avoid Zioptan if you have a known allergy to Tafluprost or any of the ingredients in the product.
• Do not use Zioptan if you have an active eye infection or if there are signs of eye injury or inflammation (such as uveitis).
• Zioptan should be avoided during pregnancy unless specifically recommended by your healthcare provider, as its safety during pregnancy has not been fully established.
• If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Zioptan, as it is not known if Tafluprost is excreted in breast milk.
• Avoid using Zioptan in individuals with certain eye conditions, such as macular edema (swelling in the retina) or a history of iritis (inflammation of the iris).