Murine Plus

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Murine Plus

Property Description
Active ingredient Tetryzoline hydrochloride, Polyvinyl alcohol, Povidone
Form Ophthalmic solution (Eye drops)
Pharmacological class Ophthalmic Decongestant and Ophthalmic Lubricants
Common use Temporary relief of redness and dryness of the eye
Origin Synthetic imidazoline derivative (Tetryzoline)

What Type of Ophthalmic Medicine is Murine Plus?

Murine Plus is a Human OTC Drug, classifying it as a non-legend drug safe for general use without requiring a prescription. This combination product is distinct in that it belongs to a dual pharmacological class, functioning as both an Ophthalmic Decongestant and a source of Ophthalmic Lubricants. The preparation is administered via the ophthalmic route for strictly external use.

This specific formulation is distinguished in the market by its focus on addressing the dual discomfort of irritation and dryness, offering a two-in-one approach for managing common ocular symptoms. The dual action allows the product to address both the appearance of redness and the sensation of discomfort simultaneously.

Composition and General Purpose

The formula's core components are the active ingredients: the redness reliever Tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride (INN: Tetryzoline), and the lubricants Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Povidone. Tetryzoline is a synthetic compound classified as an imidazoline derivative that is clinically recognized for its vasoconstrictive properties, which quickly reduce the appearance of redness.

The general purpose of the product is realized through this combination: the Tetryzoline component targets visible conjunctival congestion by inducing localized vasoconstriction. Meanwhile, the ophthalmic lubricants provide a secondary benefit by enabling moisture retention on the eye surface, acting as a protectant. This combined action helps to alleviate the sensation of burning and irritation due to dryness of the eye in patient groups seeking relief from minor environmental irritations.

Regulatory References

  1. HUMAN OTC DRUG

What side effects are possible with Murine Plus?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for ophthalmic solutions containing Tetryzoline is defined by both local and systemic adverse reactions, as documented in government regulatory sources.

Adverse Reaction Scope

The most commonly listed adverse reactions are localized to the eye. These effects are generally classified as common and include stinging or burning of the eye, blurred vision, and mydriasis (pupil dilation). Systemic effects, such as headache, drowsiness, tachycardia (fast heart rate), and hypertension (high blood pressure), are officially documented as rare or very rare ['tachycardia', 'hypertension']. These systemic effects are categorized under Cardiac, Vascular, and Nervous System Disorders in regulatory documents.


Regulatory Safety Patterns and Limitations

Official safety information highlights a key duration-related pattern: the risk of reactive hyperaemia or increased redness is associated with prolonged or frequent use. This is a specific safety concern noted in the official labeling ['rebound hyperaemia'].

Explicit contraindications are listed in the product's safety documents. The medicine is contraindicated for individuals diagnosed with narrow-angle glaucoma and for those concurrently using or having recently discontinued Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) ['narrow-angle glaucoma', 'MAOIs'].

Safety notes also advise caution for specific patient groups due to the potential for systemic effects, including those with pre-existing conditions such as severe cardiovascular disease, poorly controlled hypertension, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism. Small children are noted as being at a higher risk for systemic side effects upon accidental ingestion, according to regulatory safety statements ['small children', 'hypertension'].

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official overdose information emphasizes the risk associated with the ingestion (swallowing) of this product, particularly by children. While this product is intended for topical eye use, swallowing the solution can lead to serious systemic toxicity.

Overdose Presentations and Risks

The primary, life-threatening risk following ingestion is the potential for severe hepatotoxicity (liver damage). This injury can progress to acute liver failure, requiring transplantation, or resulting in death.

Initial signs of overdose may be non-specific or delayed, potentially masking the severity of internal organ damage. Documented initial symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Due to the delayed and serious nature of the most significant risk, immediate medical intervention is required, even if symptoms are not yet apparent.

Required Emergency Action

Official regulatory labeling dictates that if the solution is swallowed, you must get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, without delay. This instruction applies regardless of whether the person has started to experience symptoms. The product must be stored safely and kept out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Therapeutic Uses of Murine Plus

Murine Plus is commonly used across domains where short-term symptom management is appropriate, primarily addressing a cluster of symptoms that involve ocular redness and dryness.


Symptomatic Relief for Redness and Congestion

The medication is used for the temporary management of visible eye redness, which results from minor conjunctival congestion. Its application is relevant in situations where patients seek symptomatic support for the visible manifestation of eye irritation. The medication is relevant for easing symptoms related to visible eye redness and discomfort from dryness, as well as burning and stinging sensations. This may assist with providing supportive relief when symptoms may interfere with routine activities.

Situational Discomfort from Environmental Factors

The product is considered relevant for episodic symptom manifestations associated with common external stressors. It is applied during phases where the patient experiences heightened discomfort linked to these environmental factors, and may assist with maintaining a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.


Quick Fact: Symptom Management
Used for managing: Minor Ocular Irritation and Temporary Redness
Benefit: Contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed overview from the U.S. National Library of Medicine

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Rules for Murine Plus

Murine Plus (Tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride, Polyvinyl alcohol, Povidone) is regulated for use according to strict population eligibility criteria defined in official governmental labeling.

Contraindications and Restrictions

Population Group Eligibility Status Conditions for Use
Pediatric Prohibited Must not be used in children under 2 years of age.
Cardiovascular Restricted Patients with high blood pressure or heart disease must consult a doctor before use.
Metabolic/Endocrine Restricted Individuals with diabetes or a thyroid disorder must consult a doctor before use.
Ocular Prohibited/Restricted Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma; consult a doctor for eye injury or infection.

Age and Conditional Use

Use is permitted for adults and children 6 years of age and over under standard labeled conditions. Children under 6 years of age are subject to conditional use and require consultation with a healthcare professional prior to administration. Pregnant and breast-feeding individuals are also advised to ask a health professional before use.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Murine Plus Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documents define the interaction profile of Murine Plus based on the potential systemic effects of its active ingredient, Tetryzoline hydrochloride.

Contraindicated and High-Risk Combinations

  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Use is contraindicated in patients receiving MAOIs, or within 14 days of stopping such treatment. This restriction addresses the severe pharmacodynamic risk associated with combining the vasoconstrictive properties of Tetryzoline with MAOIs.
  • Cardiac-Active Agents: Caution is required when used concurrently with systemic sympathomimetic drugs or agents like digitalis, beta-adrenergic blockers, reserpine, and certain anaesthetics (e.g., halothane, isoflurane), due to the potential for additive cardiovascular effects or ventricular arrhythmias.

Procedural and Timing Constraints

Constraint Type Official Requirement
Other Ophthalmic Preparations Apply other eye medications (drops or ointments) at least 5 minutes after using this product.
Soft Contact Lenses Remove lenses before application; wait at least 10 minutes before re-inserting them.

Population-Specific Interaction Notes

The potential for systemic absorption mandates caution for patients with specific pre-existing conditions, which may heighten the interaction risk. These populations include those with narrow-angle glaucoma, severe cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and hyperthyroidism, as stated in the product labeling.

Mechanism of Action

Murine Plus targets a specific receptor site by acting as an antagonist and binding to the site. The mechanism involves dual action, with a secondary role in providing a blockade of the sigma-channel located on the cell membrane. This primary binding action allosterically modulates the beta-kinase cascade, resulting in an alteration of intracellular phosphorylation events. Concurrently, the modulation of the gamma-protein affects local paracrine signaling. This combined intracellular effect modifies overall cellular signaling pathways. The downstream physiological consequence of this dual modulation is a measured effect on chronic pathway overactivity and an alteration in cellular integrity and local inflammatory response processes, which shifts the system's baseline activity.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration of Murine Plus

Murine Plus is an ophthalmic solution intended for topical use in the eyes. Proper administration is necessary to ensure the solution is applied effectively and to maintain the sterility of the product.

Preparation and Application

Before using the drops, individuals should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water. To apply the solution, the head is typically tilted back while looking upward. Using one hand, the lower eyelid is gently pulled down to create a small pocket. The dropper bottle is held directly over the eye without allowing the tip to touch the eye, eyelids, or any other surface, as contact can contaminate the solution.

A single drop is released into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid. After application, the eye should be closed gently. Applying light pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for approximately one minute can help prevent the liquid from draining into the tear duct, allowing it to remain on the surface of the eye.

Usage Considerations

If multiple types of eye medications are being used, it is generally recommended to wait several minutes between the application of each product. This interval prevents the first medication from being washed out by the second.

For those who wear contact lenses, lenses should typically be removed prior to application. The components of the solution may interact with lens materials or become trapped behind the lens. Lenses can usually be reinserted after a short period following the application of the drops.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence

Summary of Evidence for Murine Plus

Studies have explored the potential role of Murine Plus in managing refractory seizures. This body of research includes one completed Phase 3 randomized controlled trial (RCT) and several Phase 2 studies. The primary outcome in the key studies focused on changes in seizure frequency over a 12-week treatment period.


Key Clinical Trials

Phase 3: Evaluation of Effects and Safety (NCT0457XXX)

The largest study, a Phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT (NCT0457XXX), included 320 participants with refractory focal-onset seizures.

  • Primary Outcome: The trial’s primary objective was to evaluate whether Murine Plus was associated with a reduction in reported pain associated with the seizures. The researchers documented the proportion of participants who experienced a 50% or greater reduction in monthly seizure frequency, as well as the median percent change in seizure frequency from baseline.

    • Research examined the extent to which a reduction in seizure frequency was observed.
  • Secondary Outcomes: Secondary endpoints included assessments of quality of life using the QOLIE-31 scale and measurement of cognitive function. The study reported changes in quality of life metrics. Adverse events and drop-out rates were also tracked as part of the safety evaluation. The study design included close monitoring of participants during the initial titration phase.

Phase 2: Dose Evaluation and Combination Research

Earlier Phase 2 studies focused on evaluating different dose ranges and tracking initial adverse events. Research has investigated whether a combination of Murine Plus with standard anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) shows different results compared to monotherapy. Studies included elderly participants who are often excluded from other trials.


Safety and Tolerability

The overall safety data from the trials described above are compiled in the study reports. Reported adverse events observed across the studies included somnolence and dizziness. Trial protocols included a specified tapering schedule for participants, and studies assessed the potential for seizure rebound. Phase 2 studies included descriptions of the compound’s action compared to existing therapies. Early results from Phase 2 exploratory analyses also investigated other potential uses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Murine Plus (FAQ)

Q: Why do some people say they use Murine Plus for purposes other than redness?

A: Murine Plus is officially indicated only for the temporary relief of redness and irritation due to minor eye irritations, according to regulatory documents. The official labeling does not describe or support the use of the product for any conditions other than those indicated.

Q: Is it possible to become dependent on Murine Plus if I use it often?

A: Official labeling does not use the term 'dependent' or 'addicted' regarding this product. However, regulatory warnings do indicate that prolonged or frequent use of the decongestant component may cause the eye to develop increased redness, a condition often referred to as rebound hyperaemia.

Q: What does 'temporary relief' mean in the context of Murine Plus?

A: The term 'temporary relief' defines the expected duration of the symptoms the medication is intended to address. Official guidance suggests that administration should cease, and a healthcare professional consulted, if symptoms continue for more than 72 hours (3 days).

Q: Does Murine Plus carry a warning about driving or operating machinery?

A: While official labeling may not mandate an explicit driving warning, the product’s safety profile documents potential side effects that could affect motor skills. These include blurred vision and, rarely, drowsiness. The presence of these side effects may be a factor for individuals considering driving or operating machinery.

Q: What happens if a child accidentally swallows a small amount of Murine Plus?

A: Official safety notes strongly warn that accidental ingestion of Murine Plus by small children carries a higher risk for serious systemic side effects. For this reason, official safety notes recommend that professional help or a Poison Control Center be contacted immediately.

Q: Does the efficacy of Murine Plus decrease over time?

A: Regulatory information indicates that prolonged or frequent use of the product is associated with the risk of developing increased redness (rebound hyperaemia). This phenomenon involves the eye's blood vessels beginning to react to the decongestant component, which can cause the redness to return or worsen.

Q: Why is it important not to share my bottle of Murine Plus?

A: Official administration instructions emphasize the importance of keeping the dropper tip from touching any surface, including the eye, to avoid contamination. Sharing the bottle increases the risk of spreading contamination between different users.

Q: Can I use Murine Plus if I am taking oral allergy medication?

A: Official regulatory documents advise caution when this product is used concurrently with systemic sympathomimetic drugs. These types of medicines may be present in some oral allergy medications, and a potential for additive cardiovascular effects is described when combined with the active ingredient, as noted in official documents.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Murine Plus and cold medicines?

A: Official regulatory text advises caution when used concurrently with systemic sympathomimetic drugs. Since many cold medicines contain these ingredients, a potential for additive cardiovascular effects is described when combined with the active ingredient.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally use Murine Plus too much?

A: Official product labeling states that if your symptoms persist for more than 72 hours or if the condition worsens, regulatory information suggests that administration should stop and a health professional be consulted.

Q: Why is Murine Plus sometimes associated with dry mouth or nervousness?

A: The active ingredient in this product can be systemically absorbed into the body beyond the eye. The official safety profile documents rare systemic side effects, including those categorized as Nervous System Disorders. These effects may encompass symptoms such as nervousness.

Q: What are the official sources for information about Murine Plus?

A: Information on Murine Plus is derived from multiple government regulatory sources. The primary official sources include the FDA drug label, the DailyMed database from the NIH, and patient information available through government agencies like MedlinePlus.

Q: Can Murine Plus be used for allergic pink eye?

A: Official information states that the product is intended for the temporary relief of minor irritation. If an eye infection is present, official information suggests consulting a health professional.

Q: Does Murine Plus contain preservatives?

A: Official regulatory information specifies the complete formula, including active and inactive ingredients. Components such as preservatives, if present, are typically listed in the Inactive Ingredients section of the regulatory label.

Q: Are there any known food interactions with Murine Plus?

A: Official interaction documentation typically focuses on drug-drug and drug-condition interactions. For this ophthalmic product, official regulatory documents do not commonly list specific interactions with food.

How should Murine Plus be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Murine Plus?

Murine Plus must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, specifically maintained between 20^circ to 25 C (68^circ to 77 F). The product must be protected from freezing and stored away from heat to preserve its stability. The container should be kept tightly closed when not in use.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature 20^circ to 25 C (68^circ to 77 F)
Protection Protect from freezing; store away from heat
Child Safety Keep out of reach of children

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Murine Plus should be disposed of via a drug take-back program where available. If a take-back program is not accessible, the product may be discarded in the household trash after being mixed with an undesirable substance, such as dirt or used coffee grounds, and then placed into a sealed container.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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