Medications and Drugs

Eye Diseases and Conditions Slideshow

Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD

GENERIC NAME: dorzolamide

BRAND NAME: Trusopt

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Dorzolamide is an ophthalmic solution (a liquid that is placed in the eyes) that is for treating glaucoma. It is in a class of drugs called carbonic anhydrase inhibitors which includes brinzolamide (Azopt). Many parts of the body, including the eye, contain the enzyme carbonic anhydrase which plays a key role in controlling the pressure within the eye. Carbonic anhydrase controls secretion of fluid within the eye and thereby determines the pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure): the greater the amount of fluid that is secreted, the higher the pressure. Patients with glaucoma have increased intraocular pressure. Dorzolamide blocks carbonic anhydrase thereby decreasing intraocular pressure. This reduces the risk of nerve damage and loss of vision that is caused by increased intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma. The FDA approved dorzolamide in December 1994.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PREPARATIONS: Ophthalmic solution 2%: 10 ml.

STORAGE: Dorzolamide should be kept at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F) and protected from direct light.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Dorzolamide is used for controlling intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or glaucoma.

DOSING: The usual dose is one drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily.

Patients should wash both hands before each use of dorzolamide or any other eye medication to prevent contamination of the eye. The head is tilted back and the lower eyelid is pulled down with the index finger to form a pouch. The tip of the dropper should not touch the eye or eyelid. The bottle is squeezed slightly to allow the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. The eye is closed gently for one to two minutes without blinking.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Dorzolamide should not be administered with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors because the combination may lead to increased adverse effects. When used with other eye drops for reducing intraocular pressure, administration of both drugs should be separated by at least10 minutes.

PREGNANCY: There have been no adequate studies in pregnant women.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if dorzolamide is excreted into breast milk.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects of dorzolamide include irritation, burning, stinging or discomfort of the eye. These effects generally are temporary and occur immediately after administration. Approximately 1/4 of patients complain of a bitter taste and 1 in 10 patients experience an allergic eye reaction. Other less common side effects include blurred vision, excessive tearing, dry eyes, and increased sensitivity to light. Bacterial infections of the eye have been reported and may be due to accidental contamination of the containers with bacteria during handling. Dorzolamide is a sulfonamide and can be absorbed into the body. Individuals that are allergic to sulfonamides may react to dorzolamide. Therefore, dorzolamide should not be administered to patients with allergies to sulfonamides.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information