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Pilocar

Generic name: pilocarpine ophthalmic

Brand names: Isopto Carpine, Pilocar, Qlosi, Vuity

Last updated November 3, 2026 0 views
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What is Pilocar?

Pilocar (for the eyes) is used to treat glaucoma or ocular hypertension (high pressure inside the eye).

Pilocar is also used to induce miosis.

Pilocar is used to prevent high intraocular pressure after laser surgery.

Vuity and Qlosi are used in adults to treat a condition that reduces the eyes' ability to focus on near objects (presbyopia).

Pilocar may also be used for other reasons not listed in this medication guide.

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Warnings

Use only as directed. Inform your doctor if you are taking other medicines or have any other medical conditions or allergies.

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Before taking this medicine

You should not use Pilocar if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • a detached retina;
  • iritis; or
  • an eye condition called uveitis.

It is not known if Pilocar will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using Pilocar.

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Pilocar side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Seek medical attention right away if you suddenly lose your vision.

Pilocar may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • severe stinging, burning, swelling, or redness of your eye;
  • vision problems;
  • seeing flashes of light or "floaters" in your vision; or
  • signs of eye infection—swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting, or drainage.

Common side effects of Pilocar may include:

  • headache, eyebrow pain;
  • eye pain or irritation;
  • eye redness;
  • watery eyes;
  • blurred vision;
  • dim or dark vision, problems when changing focus between objects; or
  • increased sensitivity of your eyes to light.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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How should I use Pilocar?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Your doctor may examine your retina before starting therapy.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the eye drops: Pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Use only the prescribed number of drops.

Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops.

Do not touch the dropper tip or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye and lead to serious vision problems.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Wait at least 10 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Call your pharmacist if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors or has particles in it.

Store at room temperature, in an upright position and tightly closed. Do not freeze.

Qlosi is supplied as a single patient use vial. Throw away a vial (bottle) after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.

Qlosi should be stored in the refrigerator, do not freeze.

Once the foil pouch is opened, Qlosi can be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat for 30 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

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What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Signs of an overdose may include sweating, nausea, shaking, slow heart rate, increased saliva production, or feeling faint.

Do not use any other eye medications that your doctor has not prescribed.

Pilocar may cause blurred vision and could affect your reactions. Avoid driving, especially at night or engaging in risky activities until you understand how this medicine will affect you.

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What other drugs will affect Pilocar?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

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Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.