Indications
Simbrinza comes as Ophthalmic Suspension prescribed to treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma or other eye diseases. It is a fixed combination indicated in the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure. By lowering high pressure in the eye, it can reduce the risk of vision loss, nerve damage, or blindness.
Simbrinza is a combination of two active ingredients, brinzolamide and brimonidine tartrate. Brinzolamide belongs to a class of drugs known as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Brimonidine belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. The combination works together to decrease the amount of fluid within the eye.
Use and Dosage
Simbrinza is available as a prescription medicine and comes as a liquid solution in a dropper bottle. The recommended dose is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily.
To use Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before use.
- Shake the bottle well before each use.
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Hold the dropper above your eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket that you created.
- Close your eye for 1-2 minutes and gently press your finger against the inner corner of your eye to prevent the medication from draining out.
- If you need to apply drops to both eyes, repeat steps 3-5 for the other eye.
- Do not touch the tip of the dropper with your fingers or any other surfaces to prevent contamination.
- Recap the bottle, making sure it is tightly closed.
The recommended dosage for Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily. Make sure not to exceed the daily dose of this eye medication to prevent experiencing unwanted side effects. Patients should not use more than the recommended dose without consulting their healthcare provider.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Simbrinza Opthalmic Suspension (Brinzolamide/Brimonidine):
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Drowsiness
- Dry eyes
- Dry mouth
- Eye burning
- Eye discomfort
- Eye irritation, redness, or pain
- Eye redness
- Eye stinging
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Medication reaction in the treated eye
- Respiratory problems, such as shortness of breath or coughing.
- Taste changes or altered taste sensation
- Temporary blurring of vision
- Unusual taste
Serious Side Effects of Simbrinza Opthalmic Suspension (Brinzolamide/Brimonidine):
- Allergic reaction
- Extreme sensitivity to light
- Eye or eyelid pain, burning, or swelling
- Fainting
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Hives
- Itching
- Poor blood flow (brain, heart, or hands and feet)
- Rash
- Severe dizziness
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling (face and lips)
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Throat stiffness
- Trouble breathing
- Vision changes
Forms and Strength
Simbrinza Opthalmic Suspension (Brinzolamide/Brimonidine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Simbrinza Opthalmic Suspension: Opthalmic Suspension
- 1/0.2%
Cautions
- Caution is advised due to the possibility of an additive or potentiating effect with CNS (Central Nervous System) depressants.
- Individuals with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience worsened condition with the Suspension.
- Simbrinza should be used with caution in patients with depression, cerebral or coronary insufficiency, Raynaud's phenomenon, orthostatic hypotension, or thromboangiitis obliterans.
- Inform your doctor about any medical conditions or medications you are currently taking before using Simbrinza.
- As with any medication, follow the dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and seek medical attention if you experience any adverse effects.
- Simbrinza may cause blurred vision or drowsiness. Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
- Patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to sulfonamides should use Simbrinza with caution, as it contains a sulfonamide component.
- Simbrinza may cause respiratory depression or worsen respiratory issues in patients with advanced lung diseases.
- Patients with kidney disease or liver disease may need a lower dosage or should avoid using Simbrinza altogether.
- Simbrinza may interact with other medications, so patients should inform their doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products they are taking.
- Simbrinza is not recommended for use in children or pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
What should I do if I accidentally overdose on Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension?
If you accidentally overdose on Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, you should seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, dizziness, confusion, sweating, and fainting.
Does Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension interact with other medications?
Yes, Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension may interact with other medications, so patients should inform their doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products they are taking.
Is it safe to use Simbrinza for young children?
It is safe for children two years old and above. For children two years old and below, consult your doctor for other eye medications appropriate for your child.
What should I do if I accidentally miss a dose of Simbrinza?
If you miss a dose of Simbrinza, you should apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/simbrinza
- https://www.1mg.com/drugs/simbrinza-ophthalmic-suspension-342687
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-164064/simbrinza-ophthalmic-eye/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=a49c157e-6310-0011-7b7f-e26fc1820d59
- https://www.rxlist.com/simbrinza-drug.htm
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