Brimonidine Tartrate (0.15%)

Brimonidine tartrate is a relatively selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that, in radioligand binding assays and in functional assays, is approximately 1000 times more selective for the alpha-2 adrenoceptor than the alpha-1 adrenoceptor. This selectivity results in the absence of vasoconstriction in microvessels associated with human retinal xenografts.

Topical administration of brimonidine decreases IOP in humans. When used as directed, brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solutions reduce elevated IOP with minimal effect on cardiovascular parameters.

Brimonidine tartrate has a rapid onset of action, with the peak ocular hypotensive effect occurring at approximately two hours post-dosing. The duration of effect is 12 hours or greater.

Fluorophotometric studies in animals and humans suggest that brimonidine tartrate has a dual mechanism of action. Brimonidine Tartrate ophthalmic solution 0.15% lowers IOP by reducing aqueous humor production and increasing uveoscleral outflow.