Timolol Eye Preparations

About Timolol Eye Preparations

This belongs to the group of medicines known as beta-blocker eye preparations.

Timolol is used to treat glaucoma.

Glaucoma is caused by a blockage in the eye, which prevents fluid leaving, causing pressure to build up within the eye. This can cause pain and discomfort. Timolol works by reducing the production of fluid in the eye, reducing the pressure.

Timolol can also be useful in treating other conditions which cause increased pressure in the eye.

Timolol is available in eye drop and eye gel (released as drops) form. It is also available as unit dose vials.

It is also sometimes known as: Timoptol; Timoptol-LA; Nyogel. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Timolol eye preparations

Before using any of this preparation make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart problems
• if you suffer from asthma or have ever suffered from any other breathing problems
• if you wear soft contact lenses
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Timolol Eye Preparations

1. Wash your hands well before use.
2. Remove the outer cap or the tip of the vial (if using unit dose vials).
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye out to form a pocket.
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye with the nozzle.
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops.
6. Close the eye, and keep the eye closed for a minute or two.
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use Timolol in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with any surface (including the eye or the fingers).
9. If you have been supplied the single dose vials, throw away the vial after each application.
10. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use this preparation exactly as directed by your doctor and always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked.
• Use this preparation only as directed by your doctor. Do not use the drops more often than the doctor has ordered. Doing so can increase your chances of side effects.
• If you also use any other eye drops or ointments, leave about five minutes between each one.
• Do not use soft contact lenses while you are being treated with Timolol.
• Try to use this preparation at regular intervals as directed by your doctor and try not to miss any doses.
• Do not swallow this medicine. If you or someone else has swallowed this preparation, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Always take the container or bottle with you if possible.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Can Timolol Eye Preparations cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Stinging, burning, pain, itching, dry eyes, wheezing or shortness of breath, reduced sensitivity in the eye, double vision or blurred vision, drooping of the eyelid.

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Timolol Eye Preparations

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Discard the eye drops 4 weeks after opening.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 26/05/2005