Indications
Cosopt (Dorzolamide Timolol) is a topical medication used to reduce intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It is a combination of two active ingredients: Dorzolamide and Timolol. These two substances work together to reduce the buildup of fluid in the eye which is responsible for elevated intraocular pressure.
Cosopt is a medication used to treat certain types of glaucoma and other eye conditions that involve increased pressure within the eye. Timolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers, while dorzolamide belongs to a class of drugs called carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
Uses and Dosage
Cosopt comes in the form of eye drops and is directly applied to the surface of the eye. When eye drops are dispensed, they remain on the surface of the eye, and the active ingredients are absorbed into the eye to help lower eye pressure and manage glaucoma. Additionally, Cosopt comes in a preservative-free form for people who are sensitive to the preservatives used in other eye medications.
The recommended dosage of Cosopt (dorzolamide/timolol) is one drop in the affected eye two times a day (morning and evening). The dose should be determined by your doctor depending on your individual symptoms and condition.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Cosopt:
- Temporary blurred vision
- Temporary burning or itching of the eye
- Temporary eye redness
- Watery eyes
- Dry eyes
- Strange taste in the mouth
- Headache
- Drowsiness
Serious Side Effects of Dorzolamide:
- Dizziness
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or coldness of the hands or feet
- Unusual fatigue
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Chest pain
- Unusual weight gain
- Persistent dizziness
- Vision changes
- Eye pain
- Eye swelling
- Unusual eye redness and discharge
- Mental or mood changes
- Infection (fever, chills, persistent sore throat)
- Signs of kidney stone (pain in the abdomen, side, or back, vomiting, blood in the urine)
Form and Strength
Cosopt (Dorzolamide/Timolol) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Cosopt: Eye Solution
- 2/0.5%
Dorzolamide/Timolol: Eye Drops
- 2/0.5%
Caution
- People with bronchospastic diseases such as asthma or COPD should be cautious when taking Timolol and make sure their provider is aware of any previous or current lung conditions.
- Cosopt (dorzolamide/timolol) contains dorzolamide, which can cause swelling of the cornea. People with a thin cornea, or a cornea with a reduced number of cells, should talk to their healthcare provider before taking Cosopt, as it may cause further damage to the cornea. People with a history of corneal swelling or ulceration should also talk to their healthcare provider before taking Cosopt, as it may worsen these conditions.
- Before taking Cosopt, it is important to disclose to your doctor your full medical history, including any history of arrhythmia, lung disease, heart disease, heart failure, liver disease, kidney problems, diabetes, muscle weakness disorder, hyperthyroidism, cerebrovascular insufficiency, and severe allergies.
- People with diabetes may not notice symptoms of low blood sugar when taking beta-blocker medications like Timolol, except for sweating and dizziness. Since Cosopt (dorzolamide/timolol) is an ophthalmic medication and an exceedingly small amount of it is absorbed into the bloodstream, this is rare. If you are taking Cosopt (dorzolamide/timolol), talk to your provider to see if you should monitor your blood sugar more closely.
- Before starting Cosopt (dorzolamide/timolol), talk to your provider if you have any muscle conditions, such as myasthenia gravis, as it may worsen symptoms of this condition, such as muscle weakness. Contact your provider if you notice any changes in vision, eyelid droop, or general weakness while using this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long will it take for Cosopt to work?
It may take a few hours for this eye medication to work.
How should I use Cosopt?
Cosopt (Dorzolamide/Timolol) should be used as directed by your doctor. It is usually administered once or twice a day, depending on your condition. Make sure to wash your hands before using the drops, and to avoid touching the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface.
Can I take Cosopt with other medications?
You should always consult with your doctor before taking any new medications, including Cosopt (Dorzolamide/Timolol). There is a potential for interactions with certain drugs, so inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking.
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