MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine)

What is this medication?

MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine)
Alpha2-Adrenergic Agonist

Brand Name US: Mirvaso
Canadian Equivalent: Onreltea

MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine) is officially indicated for the treatment of acne rosacea.

How does this medication work? 

MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine) is a selective alpha2-receptor agonist which cause the smooth muscle around the wall of smaller blood vessels (arteries and veins) to tighten. When MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine) is applied topically it is believed to decrease erythema through direct vasoconstriction.

How should I take this medication? 

Rosacea:
Topical: Apply a pea-size amount using a thin layer to cover the entire face covering the central forehead, each cheek, nose, and chin once daily. 

How to Use:  Apply smoothly and evenly as a thin layer across the entire face (central forehead, each cheek, nose, and chin) avoiding the eyes and lips. Wash hands immediately after applying. Do not apply to open wounds or irritated skin.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Worsening redness of the skin has been observed.  Discontinuation of therapy is required for symptoms to resolve. Brimonidine may cause intermittent flushing, 30 minutes to several hours after application. Hypersensitivity reactions such as allergic contact dermatitis whereby; angioedema, tongue swelling, and urticaria may occur. Bradycardia, hypotension (including orthostatic hypotension), and dizziness have been reported; may require hospitalization in severe cases. Use Brimonidine with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, orthostatic intolerance, hypotension, cerebral or coronary insufficiency, scleroderma, thromboangiitis obliterans and Raynaud phenomenon, Sjogren’s syndrome.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Flushing, burning sensation of skin, localized warm feeling, paresthesia, erythema, acne vulgaris, allergic contact dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dermatitis, skin pain, blurred vision, nasal congestion.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for MIRVASO/ONRELTEA (Brimonidine), only common ones.