Microsol Eye Drop Eye Drops (Naphazoline HCl; Zinc Sulfate; Chlorphenamine maleate) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

This is an eye drop that combines three active ingredients — Naphazoline (which shrinks swollen blood vessels in the eye to reduce redness), Zinc Sulfate (which soothes irritated eyes), and Chlorphenamine (an antihistamine that stops itching and allergic reactions in the eye). It is sold in Nigeria as Microsol Eye Drop.

What is it used for?

Red eyesitchy eyeseye irritation from dust or smokeallergic eye reactionswatery eyesminor eye discomfort

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Allergies Eye Conditions

How it works

Activates alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on ocular blood vessels causing vasoconstriction and reducing conjunctival hyperemia, while chlorphenamine blocks H1 histamine receptors to suppress itching and allergic inflammation, and zinc sulfate provides astringent action to reduce ocular irritation and excess lacrimation.

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.

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Is Naphazoline safe to take with another drug?

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How to take this drug

For adults, put 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye 2 to 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid gently, and drop the medicine inside. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or fingers. Do not use for more than 3 to 5 days continuously without a doctor's advice.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you forget to use your drops, apply them as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not double the drops to make up for the one you missed.

What to watch out for

Do not use this eye drop for more than 5 days in a row — overuse can cause rebound redness where your eyes become even redder than before. Buy only from reputable pharmacies, not roadside sellers, as improper storage can contaminate eye drops. If your symptoms do not improve within 2 to 3 days, see a doctor rather than continuing to self-medicate.

Common Side Effects

Mild burning or stinging when you first put the drops in
temporary blurred vision
slight dryness of the eyes
feeling sleepy (from the antihistamine)
enlarged pupils

Serious Side Effects

Severe eye pain or worsening redness after using the drops — stop and see a doctor immediately. Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling around the eyes
face
or difficulty breathing — seek urgent medical help.

Drug Interactions

If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between each one. Avoid using this eye drop together with MAO inhibitor medicines (used for depression) as it can cause dangerous reactions. Drinking alcohol while using this drop may increase drowsiness.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using this eye drop, as safety has not been fully established.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to any of the ingredients (naphazoline
zinc sulfate
or chlorphenamine)
people with narrow-angle glaucoma (a serious eye pressure condition)
children under 6 years without a doctor's prescription
and people with severe heart disease or high blood pressure should avoid this eye drop.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian heat can spoil eye drops quickly. Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use. Do not use the eye drop more than 4 weeks after opening. Always keep it out of children's reach.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Microsol Eye Drop