Dorzolamide

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Glaucopress, Trusopt

Popular combinations:

Cosopt, Glaumide-Co, Glauopt Co

Drug group:

Drug for glaucoma

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Dorzolamide, only available in the form of eye drops, is useful in the treatment of:

• Glaucoma
• Ocular hypertension (high pressure inside the eye)

It can be used either alone or in combination with a beta blocker.

How does it work?

• Dorzolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor
• It relieves pressure by reducing production of aqueous humour (the fluid in the anterior chamber of the eye)

How should it be used?

• Do not use dorzolamide if you are allergic to sulphonamide drugs or benzalkonium chloride
• Discard eye drops 4 weeks after opening

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

1 drop in the affected eye, 3  x daily (on its own); 2 x daily (combined preparations)

How quickly will it start to work?

15–30 minutes   
                               

How long will the effects last?

4–8 hours  
                                

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor.   
                             

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use of this drug may (rarely) lead to the development of kidney stones.                            

What are the possible side effects?

Most side effects of dorzolamide are local to the eye, but if enough of the drug is absorbed by the body, systemic effects may occur.

The following (local effects) have been reported:

• More common: inflammation of the eye/eyelids (leading to burning, stinging, or watery eyes, inflamed or sore eyes, or blurred vision)
• Less common: bitter taste in the mouth
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: systemic effects (itchy rash, swelling of the lips/tongue, breathing difficulties)

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems
• Other medicines: No known interactions
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not prescribed
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can affect your vision
• Alcohol: No special problems