Timolol Maleate Ophthalmic Solution

Uses of Timolol Maleate Ophthalmic Solution

This medication is used to treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma (open angle-type) or other eye diseases (such as ocular hypertension). Lowering high pressure inside the eye helps to prevent blindness. This medication works by decreasing the amount of fluid within the eye. Timolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers.

Precautions and Warnings

Before using timolol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as preservatives like benzalkonium chloride), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: lung disease (such as current or past history of asthma, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), certain types of irregular heartbeats (such as sinus bradycardia, second or third degree AV block), certain types of heart disease (such as severe heart failure, cardiogenic shock), kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, low blood flow to the brain (cerebrovascular insufficiency), overactive thyroid disease, muscle weakness disorders, severe allergies.

If you develop an eye infection or injury, or have eye surgery, check with your doctor about whether you should continue to use your current bottle of timolol. You may be advised to start using a new bottle.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This product may prevent the fast/pounding heartbeat you would usually feel when your blood sugar level falls too low (hypoglycemia). The risk is higher if you have diabetes, or are vomiting, fasting, or not eating regularly. Other symptoms of low blood sugar level, such as dizziness and sweating, are not affected by this drug.

Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually once in the morning or twice daily.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Temporary blurred vision,
• temporary burning/stinging/itching/redness of the eye,
• watery eyes,
•  dry eyes,
• feeling as if something is in the eye,
• or headache.