Brimonidine
Brimonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist medication primarily used as eye drops to lower intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It is also available in topical formulations for treating facial erythema associated with rosacea.
Brimonidine is an eye pressure-lowering medication used to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension, with topical forms also used for facial redness.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- S01EA02
- RxNorm
- 2026
- Generic
- Brimonidine
- Class
- atc-d11
- Brands
- Simbrinza, Mirvaso, Alphagan, Lumify, Yuvezzi, Combigan
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- safe
- Half-life (h)
- 3
- Onset (min)
- 60
- Duration (h)
- 12
- Routes
- topical, ophthalmic
- Forms
- eye drops, topical gel
- Regions
- US, EU, CA, AU, JP
- Monitoring
- intraocular pressure, systemic blood pressure
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Brimonidine ophthalmic solution is indicated for reducing elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The topical gel formulation is used to treat persistent facial erythema (redness) associated with rosacea in adults.
Brimonidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. In the eye, it reduces aqueous humor production and increases uveoscleral outflow, thereby lowering intraocular pressure. Topically, it causes vasoconstriction of facial blood vessels, reducing redness.
Brimonidine eye drops may cause drowsiness, fatigue, or hypotension in some patients. It is contraindicated in patients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors and should be used cautiously in those with depression, orthostatic hypotension, or cardiovascular disease. The topical gel should not be applied to irritated skin or mucous membranes. Common side effects include eye irritation, dryness, and transient redness upon initial topical use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy