What Is Iopidine? The Essential Definition

Iopidine is a prescription eye drop medication containing apraclonidine hydrochloride that reduces intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye) to treat glaucoma and prevent vision loss.

If you've been prescribed Iopidine or are researching treatment options for elevated eye pressure, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this important glaucoma medication in 2026, including how it works, proper usage, costs, and safety considerations.

What Is Iopidine? Complete Drug Information

Brand Name vs. Generic

• Brand name: Iopidine
• Generic name: Apraclonidine hydrochloride (also written as apraclonidine HCl)
• Drug class: Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist
• Route: Topical ophthalmic (eye drops)

Manufacturer and FDA Information

• Manufacturer: Alcon Laboratories, Inc.
• FDA approval: Originally approved for short-term use in glaucoma management
• Controlled substance: No - Iopidine is not a controlled substance
• DEA schedule: Not applicable (not a controlled medication)

Available Formulations

Iopidine comes in two strengths:

• Iopidine 0.5%: Contains 5 mg of apraclonidine per mL, typically used for ongoing glaucoma treatment
• Iopidine 1%: Contains 10 mg of apraclonidine per mL, often used around eye surgeries to prevent pressure spikes

Both formulations are available as sterile ophthalmic solutions in 5 mL bottles with a dropper tip for easy application.

What Is Iopidine Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

Iopidine is officially approved for:

• Treatment of glaucoma: When other medications don't adequately reduce eye pressure
• Perioperative control of intraocular pressure: Used before, during, or after eye surgeries
• Prevention of intraocular pressure spikes: Specifically during glaucoma surgery procedures

Types of Glaucoma Treated

Iopidine is effective for several types of glaucoma and eye pressure conditions:

• Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type where drainage channels become less efficient over time
• Angle-closure glaucoma: When the iris blocks drainage channels
• Secondary glaucoma: Elevated eye pressure caused by other eye conditions or medications
• Ocular hypertension: High eye pressure without optic nerve damage (yet)

Off-Label Uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe Iopidine for:

• Short-term adjunctive therapy: Added to other glaucoma medications for additional pressure reduction
• Diagnostic procedures: To temporarily lower eye pressure during certain eye tests

How Is Iopidine Taken?

Typical Dosage Range

The standard Iopidine dosing is:

• Usual dose: One drop in the affected eye(s) 2-3 times daily
• Maximum frequency: Generally not more than 3 times per day
• Timing: Space doses evenly throughout the day (every 8-12 hours)

Proper Application Technique

1. Wash your hands: Clean hands thoroughly before handling the bottle
2. Remove contact lenses: Take out contacts at least 15 minutes before application
3. Tilt your head back: Look up toward the ceiling
4. Pull down lower eyelid: Create a small pocket for the drop
5. Apply one drop: Squeeze gently without touching the dropper to your eye
6. Close your eye: Keep it closed for 1-2 minutes to allow absorption
7. Apply gentle pressure: Press lightly on the inner corner of your eye to prevent drainage
8. Wait before contacts: Don't reinsert contact lenses for at least 15 minutes

Important Timing Considerations

• Consistent schedule: Take at the same times each day for best results
• Missed doses: Apply as soon as you remember, but skip if it's almost time for the next dose
• Multiple eye medications: Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye drops

Who Should Not Take Iopidine?

Contraindications (Absolute No's)

Do not use Iopidine if you have:

• Hypersensitivity to apraclonidine: Known allergic reactions to the active ingredient
• MAO inhibitor use: Currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (antidepressants)

Use with Caution (Relative Contraindications)

Your doctor will carefully consider Iopidine if you have:

• Severe cardiovascular disease: Heart conditions that affect circulation
• Cerebrovascular disease: History of stroke or brain blood vessel problems
• Chronic kidney failure: Reduced kidney function
• Raynaud's disease: Condition causing reduced blood flow to fingers and toes
• Thromboangiitis obliterans: Blood vessel inflammation condition
• Depression: Current or history of depressive episodes

Special Monitoring Required

If you have depression, your doctor will monitor you closely since apraclonidine has been associated with mood changes in some patients.

How Much Does Iopidine Cost?

Brand Name Iopidine Pricing

• Cash price range: $86-183 for a 5mL bottle
• Average cost: Around $130 without insurance
• Price variation: Costs vary significantly between pharmacies

Generic Apraclonidine Pricing

• Generic availability: Yes, generic versions are available
• Generic cash price: $13-37 with discount coupons (like GoodRx)
• Significant savings: Generic can cost 70-80% less than brand name

Insurance Coverage

• Most plans cover it: Generally covered by most insurance plans
• Prior authorization: May be required for brand name version
• Tier placement: Usually placed on lower tiers (cheaper copays) when covered
• Step therapy: Some plans require trying other glaucoma medications first

Patient Assistance Programs

• Manufacturer programs: Limited savings programs available from Alcon
• Contact information: Call Alcon directly for patient assistance program details
• Eligibility requirements: Usually based on income and insurance status

For comprehensive savings strategies, see our detailed guide on Iopidine discounts and patient assistance.

Important Safety Information

Common Side Effects

Most patients tolerate Iopidine well, but common side effects include:

• Eye redness and irritation
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Temporary blurred vision

For complete side effect information, read our detailed guide on Iopidine side effects.

Drug Interactions

Iopidine can interact with:

• MAO inhibitors: Dangerous interaction - do not use together
• Tricyclic antidepressants: May enhance blood pressure effects
• Beta-blockers: Can increase cardiovascular effects

Learn more about Iopidine drug interactions and what to tell your doctor.

How Iopidine Compares to Other Glaucoma Medications

Similar Medications

Other alpha-2 agonists used for glaucoma include:

• Brimonidine (Alphagan P): More commonly used, longer-acting
• Timolol maleate: Beta-blocker, different mechanism of action
• Latanoprost (Xalatan): Prostaglandin analog, once-daily dosing
• Dorzolamide/timolol (Cosopt): Combination medication

If Iopidine isn't available, explore alternative glaucoma medications that might work for you.

Finding Iopidine and Healthcare Providers

Locating Pharmacies with Stock

Since Iopidine is a specialty medication, not all pharmacies keep it in regular inventory. Use these resources to find it:

• MedFinder: Real-time pharmacy inventory checker
• Chain pharmacy apps: CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid online inventory
• Hospital pharmacies: Often stock specialty eye medications

See our complete guide on checking Iopidine pharmacy availability.

Finding Prescribing Doctors

Iopidine can be prescribed by:

• Ophthalmologists: Eye surgeons and specialists
• Optometrists: Eye care professionals (in most states)
• Some primary care doctors: For established glaucoma patients

Learn how to find a doctor who can prescribe Iopidine in your area.

Final Thoughts

Iopidine is an effective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that plays an important role in glaucoma treatment by lowering dangerous eye pressure levels. While it may cause some side effects and can be more challenging to find than common medications, it offers significant benefits for patients who need additional eye pressure control.

The key to successful Iopidine treatment is proper application technique, consistent dosing, regular follow-up with your eye doctor, and open communication about any side effects or concerns you experience.

If you're having trouble accessing Iopidine, remember that generic apraclonidine is significantly less expensive and just as effective. Work with your healthcare provider and pharmacist to find the most cost-effective and accessible option for your specific situation.

Need help finding Iopidine in your area? MedFinder can help you locate pharmacies with this medication in stock near you.