Cosopt

What is it?

A preparation used to treat high pressure within the eye which combines a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and a β-blocker. Both these agents lower pressure within the eye by reducing the production of fluid (aqueous humour). Available as eye drops containing 2% dorzolamide as hydrochloride and 0.5% timolol.

Medical Uses

High pressure within the eye caused by pseudoexfoliative and open-angle glaucoma, when β-blocker treatment on its own has been inadequate.

Dosage

Adults, one drop directly into affected eye(s) once each day.

Special Care

Previous eye surgery, chronic defects of cornea, low blood pressure, previous serious heart disease, diabetes, allergy to sulfonamide drugs, history of kidney stones, liver disease, over-active thyroid gland, Prinzmetal's angina, serious circulatory disorders, uncontrolled heart failure, myasthenia gravis ( a severe autoimmune disorder). Treatment should be stopped gradually.

Avoid Use

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, severe COPD (respiratory disease), bronchial asthma, various heart and circulatory disorders - heart failure, heart shock, 2nd or 3rd degree heart block, sinus bradycardia, hyperchloraemic acidosis, serious kidney disease, wearers of soft contact lenses (leave at least a quarter of an hour before putting lenses back in eyes, following treatment).

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Narcotics, other heart/circulatory drugs, MAOIs, quinidine. Other eye drops/drugs should not be introduced for at least 10 minutes following treatment.

Known Side Effects

Irritation of eye, blurred vision, effects on sense of taste, stones in urinary system, allergic responses, possible internal effects.

Manufacturer

M.S.D.