Altafrin

Generic name:phenylephrine ophthalmic [ fen-ill-EFF-rin ]
Brand names: AK-Dilate, Altafrin, Mydfrin, Neofrin
Drug classes:Mydriatics, Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 4, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Altafrin?

Phenylephrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels.

Altafrin (for the eyes) is used to relieve eye redness, dryness, burning, and irritation caused by wind, sun, and other irritants.

Prescription-strength Altafrin is used to constrict blood vessels in the eye and to dilate (make bigger) the pupil for conditions such as glaucoma, before surgery, and before eye examinations.

Altafrin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use Altafrin if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Altafrin if you are allergic to it, or if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

Do not use Altafrin without a doctor's advice if you have:

• an eye infection;

• an eye injury; or

• if you have you have recently had eye surgery.

Any of the conditions above could cause your eyes to absorb Altafrin into your body, which could lead to dangerous effects on the heart.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use Altafrin if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• high blood pressure;

• any type of heart condition;

• coronary artery disease (hardened arteries); or

• asthma or sulfite allergy.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Altafrin will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.

It is not known whether phenylephrine ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use Altafrin?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a sm...