Brand Name
Cosopt
Common Name
dorzolamide - timolol (eye drops)
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02240113 | COSOPT -(2%/0.5% OPH DPS) |
| 02258692 | PRESERVATIVE-FREE COSOPT |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
This is a combination medication that contains dorzolamide and timolol. Dorzolamide is a member of the family of medications known as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Timolol is a member of the family of medications known as beta-blockers. Together, these medications are used to treat increased pressure in the eye associated with ocular hypertension and glaucoma. These medications work by reducing the production of fluid in the eye, thereby lowering the pressure in the eye.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of dorzolamide - timolol eye drops is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily. Dorzolamide - timolol eye drops should be used at least 10 minutes before or after other eye drops that are being used.
Wash your hands thoroughly before using eye drops. To prevent contamination of the eye drops with bacteria, do not allow the tip of the container to touch the eye, fingers, or other surfaces. When using the preservative-free solution, the container and remaining solution must be discarded after each treatment.
Refer to the package insert for instructions on how to administer these eye drops properly.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Cosopt
Each mL of clear, colourless to nearly colourless, slightly viscous, sterile, isotonic, buffered, aqueous ophthalmic solution contains dorzolamide 20 mg (equivalent to dorzolamide HCl 22.3 mg) and timolol 5 mg (equivalent to timolol maleate 6.83 mg). Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride (0.0075%) (as preservative), hydroxyethyl cellulose, mannitol, sodium citrate, sodium hydroxide and water for injection.
Cosopt, Preservative-Free
For patients who may be sensitive to the preservative benzalkonium chloride or when use of a preservative-free topical medication is advisable, a formulation of COSOPT without the preservative benzalkonium chloride is available. Each mL of clear, colourless to nearly colourless, slightly viscous, sterile, isotonic, buffered, aqueous ophthalmic solution contains dorzolamide 20 mg (equivalent to dorzolamide HCl 22.3 mg) and timolol 5 mg (equivalent to timolol maleate 6.83 mg). Nonmedicinal ingredients: hydroxyethyl cellulose, mannitol, sodium citrate, sodium hydroxide and water for injection.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Dorzolamide plus timolol eye drops should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to dorzolamide, timolol, or any of the ingredients of this medication
- have bronchospasm, including bronchial asthma, or a history of bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (e.g., chronic bronchitis, emphysema)
- have heart problems that include an extremely low heart rate, second or third degree heart block, overt heart failure or cardiogenic shock (shock due to heart-related causes)
- have severe kidney impairment
- take carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide) by mouth
Did you find what you were looking for on our website? Please let us know.
