Timolol Maleate 0.25% and 0.5% eyedrops
What is this medicine?
TIMOLOL is used in the eye to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye.
What should my health care professional know before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- diabetes
- heart or blood vessel disease like slow heart rate, worsening heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome or Raynaud's disease
- lung disease like asthma or emphysema
- thyroid disease
- wear contact lenses
- an unusual or allergic reaction to timolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. If you are using a unit dose container, use immediately after opening and throw away right after use. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops and apply gentle finger pressure to the inner corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medication in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have applied too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share it with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
What may interact with this medicine?
- clonidine
- medicines for high blood pressure
- medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
- medicines for diabetes
- medicines for mental depression like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline
- medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances
- medicines to control heart rhythm
Do not use other eye products with this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while taking this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular exams. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you should continue to use this medicine if you injure your eyes, get an eye infection, or need eye surgery.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly.
If you wear soft contact lenses, you should not put this medicine in your eyes while wearing the lenses. After using the eye drops, wait about 15 minutes before putting lenses in your eyes. Wear dark glasses if this medicine makes your eyes more sensitive to light.
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
- changes in blood sugar
- cold hands or feet
- confusion, hallucinations
- difficulty breathing, wheezing
- difficulty sleeping, nightmares
- dizziness or fainting spells
- irregular heartbeat, palpitations, chest pain
- skin rash, itching, peeling skin
- slow heart rate
- swelling of the legs or ankles
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- blurred vision
- burning stinging or itching of the eyes or eyelids
- increased sensitivity of the eyes to light
This list may not describe all possible side effects.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
