Minims (Fluorescein Sodium, Lidocaine Hydrochloride)

Minims combines a diagnostic dye and a local anesthetic to facilitate ocular examinations and minor procedures.

• Corneal staining: Enables visualization of epithelial defects and lesions during slit‑lamp examination.
• Ocular surface anesthesia: Provides temporary numbness of the conjunctiva and cornea for comfortable intra‑ocular pressure measurement or foreign‑body removal.
• Diagnostic fluorescein testing: Assists in tear‑film break‑up time and fluorescein angiography assessments.

• Fluorescein sodium binds to proteins on the ocular surface, producing a bright yellow‑green fluorescence that highlights epithelial disruptions under cobalt blue light. Lidocaine hydrochloride blocks voltage‑gated sodium channels in corneal and conjunctival nerves, preventing depolarization and producing reversible surface anesthesia. The combined action allows clinicians to both visualize tissue abnormalities and perform examinations with minimal discomfort.

Common Side Effects

• Stinging or burning sensation at the application site.
• Mild transient blurred vision.
• Conjunctival hyperemia (redness).
• Temporary increase in tear production.
• Mild eyelid edema.
• Slight ocular discomfort that resolves within minutes.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.
• Severe corneal toxicity or persistent epithelial defect.
• Significant rise in intra‑ocular pressure.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Severe ocular inflammation or uveitis.
• Vision loss if complications are not promptly managed.

Before using Minims, consider the following precautions:

• Allergy assessment: avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to fluorescein or lidocaine.
• Pregnancy: use only if clearly needed; safety has not been established.
• Contact lens wearers: remove lenses prior to administration.
• Concurrent ocular medications: do not mix with other ophthalmic solutions without professional guidance.
• Eye trauma: defer use if corneal integrity is compromised.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Minims may interact with other ophthalmic agents. Review the following interaction categories:

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic anesthetics: concurrent use may potentiate lidocaine systemic effects.
• Topical vasoconstrictors: may reduce dye distribution and diagnostic accuracy.
• Other fluorescein‑containing products: risk of excessive dye exposure.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Beta‑blocker eye drops: monitor intra‑ocular pressure changes.
• Prostaglandin analogs: may increase ocular irritation.
• Anticholinergic eye drops: may affect pupil response during examination.