Viroptic

Generic name: trifluridine ophthalmic [ trye-FLURE-i-deen-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 10, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Viroptic?

Trifluridine is an antiviral medicine that fights infections that are caused by certain viruses.

Viroptic (for the eyes) is used to treat eye infections caused by herpes simplex virus, which can lead to swelling or ulcers in the eyelids or cornea (surface of the eyeball).

Viroptic will not treat an infection that is caused by bacteria or fungus.

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

Viroptic side effects

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

Call your doctor at once if:

• you have new or ongoing vision problems;

• you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using Viroptic;

• you feel like something is in your eye; or

• your eyes are red, watery, and more sensitive to light.

Common side effects of Viroptic may include:

• mild eye irritation;

• dry eyes;

• eye redness; or

• puffy eyelids.

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 FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

acyclovir ophthalmic, trifluridine ophthalmic

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Viroptic if you are allergic to trifluridine.

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

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

Viroptic is not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old.

How should I use Viroptic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

The initial dose of this medicine is 1 drop into the affected eye every 2 hours while you are awake. Once your condition improves, you may need to keep using the medication 4 times daily for another 7 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

You may need eye exams to help your doctor determine how long to treat you with trifluridine. In most cases, you should not use this medicine for longer than 21 days.

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 small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.

• Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

• Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.

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

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment with Viroptic.

Do not use trifluridine to treat any eye condition that has not been checked by your doctor. Trifluridine will not treat an infection caused by fungus or bacteria.

Store in the refrigerator, do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Viroptic is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using trifluridine ophthalmic?

Viroptic may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect Viroptic?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on trifluridine used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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