Rhofade

This medication is used to treat a certain skin disorder known as rosacea. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the face. Oxymetazoline belongs to a class of drugs known as a sympathomimetic (alpha receptor agonist). It may help to decrease facial redness caused by rosacea.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet and instructions for use if available from your pharmacist before you start using oxymetazoline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Use this medication on the skin only. Do not apply on irritated or broken skin. Apply a thin layer of medication to cover your entire face (forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Wash your hands right after applying this medication. Do not use in your eyes, mouth, or vagina. Avoid contact with your lips and eyes. If you accidentally get this medication in your eyes, rinse with large amounts of cool water.

If you are using the pump, read the instructions for use to learn how to correctly prime the pump before using it for the first time. The tubes do not need priming.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not use more of this medication or use it more often or for longer than prescribed. Your skin will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Skin reactions (dermatitis), redness, pain, or worsening of rosacea pimples may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using oxymetazoline, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: glaucoma.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless your doctor directs you to do so. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

Sun can worsen rosacea. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use a sunscreen that is SPF 15 or greater.

Avoid triggers that may worsen rosacea such as wind, hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme cold. Discuss with your doctor.