Dorzolamide and timolol eye drops

About dorzolamide and timolol eye drops

Glaucoma is caused by a blockage in the eye which prevents fluid from leaving and causes pressure to build up within the eye. This can cause pain and discomfort, and can affect the ability to see.

Dorzolamide works by blocking the action of an enzyme in the body called carbonic anhydrase. This results in a decrease in the amount of aqueous humour (watery fluid that fills the space in the front of the eye), and so pressure within the eye is reduced.

Timolol also works by reducing the production of the fluid in the eye, thus helping to reduce the pressure further.

Before using dorzolamide and timolol eye drops

Before using dorzolamide and timolol eye drops make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have kidney problems or have ever had kidney stones.
• If you have liver problems.
• If you have had any problems with your eyes, or any operations on your eyes.
• 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 been allergic to antibacterial drugs called "sulphonamides".
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use dorzolamide and timolol eye drops

1. Wash your hands well before using the eye drops.
2. Remove the cap (or the tip of the vial if you are using unit dose vials).
3. Tilt your head back and pull the lower lid of your eye out to form a pocket.
4. Hold the container between your thumb and middle finger of the other hand and turn the container upside down near to your 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 your eye and press a finger against the corner of the eye by the nose. Hold for 1 minute whilst you keep the eye closed.
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use the drops in both eyes.
8. Replace the cap on the container. Try not to touch the applicator tip on any surface (including the eye or the fingers). If you are using the single dose vials, throw away the vial after each application.
9. Wash your hands again.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use these eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor and read the manufacturer's information leaflet, before beginning your treatment. They are usually applied twice daily.
• If you are using other eye drops, wait 10 minutes after using these drops before using your other eye drops.
• If you forget to use your eye drops, do not worry, just continue using them when your next dose is due.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, it is important that you tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are using these drops.

Can dorzolamide and timolol eye drops cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store dorzolamide and timolol eye drops

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Eye drops only keep for 4 weeks once opened. After this time, throw away the bottle you are using and make sure you have a fresh supply.
• If you are using the unit dose eye drops, these are for a single use only. Throw away any solution that you do not use.

Important information about all medicines