Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: TIMOLOL SOLUTION-GEL - OPHTHALMIC (TIE-moh-lohl, off-THAL-mick)
BRAND NAME(S): Timoptic-XE
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is used to reduce pressure in the eye caused by glaucoma or other eye conditions.
HOW TO USE: To instill eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tip of the dropper or let it touch your eye. Prior to instilling the eye drops, invert the closed container and shake once before each use. It is not necessary to shake the container more than once. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. For maximum effect, this medication must be used routinely as prescribed.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may temporarily sting your eyes for a minute or two when you first use it. If stinging persists or if pain develops, inform your doctor. Vision may be temporarily blurred or unstable after applying drops. Use caution driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. Inform your doctor if you develop: skin rash, itching or hives. Notify your doctor immediately if any of the following unlikely but serious side effects occur: dizziness, drowsiness, depression, breathing difficulties, irregular or slow heartbeat. If you are using other eye medications, be sure to use them at least 10 minutes prior to using this medication. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: asthma or other lung problems, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, muscle weakness disorders, allergies. If you are scheduled for surgery that requires anesthesia, tell the doctor treating you that you use this medication. If you have eye surgery, injury or infection consult your eye doctor about continued use of your current timolol bottle. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Beta Blockers - Learn more about Beta Blockers, a drug that treats angina and other heart rhythm disorders, migraines, high blood pressure, panic attacks, and tremors. Generic and brand names are included in the article.
- Glaucoma - Get information about glaucoma and its symptoms, signs, and causes. Learn about treatment, prevention, and research on the leading cause of blindness.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
