Voriconazole ophthalmic solution is a specialized prescription eye medication used to treat certain severe eye infections. This sterile liquid is delivered directly to the eye via an eye dropper. It is an antifungal agent that stops the growth of fungi causing serious ocular conditions. It requires a prescription and should only be used under medical guidance.
What It Treats
Voriconazole ophthalmic solution is primarily prescribed for fungal infections of the eye, with a particular focus on fungal keratitis. Fungal keratitis is a serious infection of the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, which can lead to vision loss if not effectively treated. This medication also targets other serious fungal eye infections, including fungal endophthalmitis.
These infections are considered serious because fungi can penetrate deep into ocular tissues, making them difficult to eradicate with general treatments. Voriconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a substance that is a building block of fungal cell membranes, thereby disrupting the fungus’s ability to grow and survive. While other antifungal agents exist, voriconazole is effective against a broad range of fungal species, including Aspergillus and Candida species, which are common causes of eye infections.
Proper Use and General Precautions
Before applying the drops, thoroughly wash and dry your hands to prevent contamination. Tilt your head back and look upwards, then gently pull your lower eyelid away from your eye to create a small pouch. Carefully position the dropper tip over this pouch, ensuring it does not touch your eye or any surface to maintain sterility.
Gently squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the created pouch. If the drop misses your eye, apply another drop. After administration, look down and gently close your eyes for one to two minutes, avoiding blinking or rubbing your eye. Applying gentle pressure with a finger to the inner corner of your eye, near your nose, for one to two minutes can help prevent the medication from draining away from the eye.
Dosage is typically one drop two to four times daily, though your doctor will specify the exact frequency and duration. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent recurrence. Store the eye drops in the refrigerator. Once opened, the solution typically has a shelf life of 15 days; unopened, it may last up to 30 days from the pharmacy. If using other eye drops, wait at least five minutes between applications. Do not share this medication with others, and if you wear contact lenses, remove them before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
Possible Side Effects and When to Get Help
Voriconazole ophthalmic solution can cause side effects, some mild and temporary, others requiring medical attention. Common ocular side effects include temporary blurred vision, brief stinging, or irritation immediately after application. These usually resolve within a few minutes. Other less common eye-related side effects can include light sensitivity (photophobia) or changes in color vision (chromatopsia).
More serious symptoms warranting immediate medical attention include severe eye pain, sudden changes in vision, or signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, rash, blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. Difficulty breathing or a fast, irregular heartbeat are also serious indicators that require urgent medical consultation. Serious systemic side effects, although generally associated with oral or intravenous voriconazole, can include signs of liver damage (e.g., yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting), kidney problems, or severe skin reactions. If you experience any concerning or worsening side effects, contact your doctor promptly.
Other Important Considerations
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements. Voriconazole can interact with other medications, potentially altering effectiveness or increasing side effects.
Voriconazole is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks observed in animal studies. Limited information exists for breastfeeding; an alternative may be preferred, especially for newborns or premature infants, until more data are available. Temporary vision changes, such as blurred vision or light sensitivity, can occur. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects your vision.