Cosopt Preservative Free (Dorzolamide/Timolol)

Indications

Cosopt Preservative-Free is an ophthalmic solution indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or high ocular pressure for whom the use of a preservative free formulation is otherwise advisable. It is a new formulation of Cosopt that does not contain preservatives, which some patients may be sensitive to use.

Cosopt a combination of two drugs: dorzolamide hydrochloride and timolol maleate. Dorzolamide hydrochloride is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, and timolol maleate is a beta-blocker. Together, these medications are used to reduce the pressure inside the eye for people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension (increased pressure in the eye). These medications work by reducing fluid production in the eye, lowering the pressure in the eye.

Uses and Dosage

Cosopt Preservative-Free eye solution ampules are used for the treatment of glaucoma, a condition that increases pressure inside the eye. To use Cosopt Preservative-Free eye solution ampules, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Open the foil pouch and remove a single-use ampule. Be careful not to touch the tip of the ampule or let it touch any surface.
3. Holding the ampule between your thumb and forefinger, snap off the tip of the ampule by bending it backwards.
4. Tilt your head back or lie down with your head tilted up.
5. Use your free hand to gently pull your lower eyelid down and away from your eye to create a small pocket.
6. Place the tip of the ampule close to your eye, but do not let it touch your eye or eyelid.
7. Squeeze the ampule to release a drop of eye solution into your eye. If more than one drop is needed, use a new ampule for each drop.
8. Close your eye for a few seconds and gently press your finger against the inner corner of the eye to prevent the solution from draining out.
9. If you need to use eye drops in both eyes, repeat the steps for the other eye, using a new ampule of eye solution.

Use the eye drops daily and strictly follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor. If you experience any side effects while using the eye drops, such as redness, itching, or swelling, immediately contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Cosopt Preservative Free (Dorzolamide/Timolol):

• Bitter taste after putting in your eye drops
• Burning, stinging, or discomfort in the eye(s) when the drops are used
• Crusting on eyelid or corner of the eye
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Itching of the eye
• Nausea
• Nosebleeds
• Redness of the eye
• Tearing (eye produces excess tears)

Serious Side Effects of Cosopt Preservative Free (Dorzolamide/Timolol):

• Abdominal pain
• Blurred vision
• Irregular heartbeat and slowing of heart rate
• Muscle pain
• Skin rash
• Symptoms of kidney stones (e.g., blood in urine, nausea or vomiting, pain inside, back, or abdomen)
• Unusual tiredness or weakness

Form and strength

Cosopt Preservative Free (Dorzolamide/Timolol) is available in the following forms and strength:

Cosopt Preservative Free: Eye Solution Ampules

• 2/0.5%

Caution

• Cosopt may cause adverse reactions such as eye irritation, burning, stinging, redness, or discomfort.
• Patients with certain medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart block or heart failure, or diabetes may be at increased risk for side effects.
• Patients taking other medications should be cautious and check with their doctor or pharmacist about possible drug interactions.
• Contact lens wearers should remove their lenses before using the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Cosopt may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Patients should inform their doctor if they experience any new or worsening vision problems while using the medication.
• Patients with liver or kidney disease should use caution when taking Cosopt, as it may metabolize differently in these patients.
• Cosopt may cause dizziness or blurred vision, which can affect a patient's ability to drive or operate machinery.
• Patients with certain heart conditions or a history of heart disease should use caution when taking this medication, as it can affect heart rate and rhythm.
• Patients with a history of anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions should use caution when taking this medication, as it may increase the risk of an allergic reaction.
• The medication may interact with certain foods or supplements, such as high-potassium foods or calcium supplements.
• Patients should avoid touching the tip of the eyedropper to any surface, as this can contaminate the medication and increase the risk of infection or other adverse effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should I use Cosopt Preservative Free?

Cosopt Preservative Free should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The usual dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cosopt Preservative Free?

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Can I wear contact lenses while using Cosopt Preservative Free?

You should not wear contact lenses while using Cosopt Preservative Free. Wait at least 15 minutes after using the eye drops before putting in your contact lenses.

Resources

• https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/cosopt#adverseeffects
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dorzolamide-and-timolol-ophthalmic-route/precautions/drg-20061826?p=1
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7769/cosopt-ophthalmic-eye/details
• https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/drugs/ced/pdf/cosopt.pdf
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=a8d4e2b5-c7bb-48fc-9314-7095cd77617e