Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is important in the maintenance of many tissues of the body.

Riboflavin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is a "photosensitive" solution used during a procedure to treat progressive keratoconus in adults and adolescents who are at least 14 years old.

Keratoconus (KER-a-toe-KOE-nus) is a degenerative eye disease that affects the cornea, the outermost layer on the surface of your eye. The cornea works by directing light toward the back of your eye to help you focus your vision. In people with keratoconus, the cornea becomes thin and weak, and then bulges outward. This causes incoming light to be channeled in too many directions, causing distorted vision. Progressive keratoconus can cause vision problems that may eventually lead to vision loss or a corneal transplant.

Riboflavin ophthalmic is used together with ultraviolet (UV) light as part of a procedure called corneal collagen crosslinking.

Corneal collagen crosslinking is a method of applying riboflavin eye drops and UV light to the cornea. In this procedure, riboflavin eye drops are placed into the eyes over several minutes. Then a UV light is directed over the cornea. The riboflavin enhances the light, causing a reaction in collagen fibers inside the cornea. This procedure helps stiffen and strengthen your cornea to slow or stop the progression of keratoconus.

Riboflavin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

To make sure riboflavin ophthalmic is safe for you, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies, and all the medicines you are using.

Also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

Use Photrexa-Photrexa Viscous Cross-Linking Kit (Ophthalmic) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• eye redness or watering;
• severe eye pain; or
• sudden change in your vision.

Common side effects may include:

• feeling like something is in your eye;
• increased tearing;
• blurred vision, hazy vision;
• increased glare in your vision; or
• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid rubbing your eyes for at least 5 days after your procedure.

Your eyes may be more sensitive to light after your procedure. Wear sunglasses when you are exposed to bright light.