Prescription Required
Description
Indications
Timoptic-XE Ophthalmic Gel is a medication used to treat glaucoma; a condition characterized by increased pressure in the eye. It is used to treat high pressure inside the eye caused by conditions such as glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Timoptic-XE Ophthalmic Gel contains the active ingredient timolol maleate, which is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent. Timolol maleate works by reducing the production of aqueous humor, the fluid that fills the front part of the eye. By decreasing the production of aqueous humor, Timoptic-XE helps to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP) in the eye.
Use and Dosage
Use Timoptic XE Ophthalmic Gel in the affected eye(s) once per day. To ensure efficacy, apply other eye medications at least 10 minutes before the timolol gel solution.
To use Timoptic-XE Ophthalmic Gel, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Shake the container of Timoptic-XE gel well before use, if instructed to do so.
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Hold the container of Timoptic-XE upside down over your eye and squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid.
- Close your eye gently and apply light pressure to the inner corner of your eye (near the nose) for about 1 to 2 minutes. This helps to prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and being absorbed systemically.
- If you are using Timoptic-XE in both eyes, repeat the above steps for the other eye, if instructed to do so.
- Try to avoid touching the tip of the container to any surface, including your eye, to prevent contamination.
- If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Timoptic-XE. You can put them back in 15 minutes after applying the medication, if instructed to do so.
After using Timoptic-XE, recap the container tightly to prevent leakage. If your healthcare provider has prescribed other eye medications, wait at least 10 minutes before applying them.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Blurred vision
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Double vision
- Drooping eyelid
- Drowsiness
- Dry eyes
- Dry mouth
- Dry or watery eyes
- Eye discomfort or pain
- Feeling as if something is in the eye
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Numbness/tingling/cold feeling in your hands or feet
- Psoriasis
- Ringing in your ears
- Seeing halos around lights
- Sensitivity to light
- Skin rash or worsening
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Stomach upset
- Stuffy nose
- Temporary blurred vision
- Temporary burning/stinging/itching/redness of the eye
- Upset stomach
- Watery eyes
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Crusting or drainage of the eye
- Depression
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye pain
- Eye swelling
- Hallucinations
- Hives
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or cold feeling in your hands and feet
- Redness or severe discomfort of the eyes
- Seeing halos around the lights
- Severe stinging or burning after using the medication
- Slow heartbeats
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Tunnel vision
- Unusual thoughts or behavior
- Wheezing
Cautions
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to timolol or other components of the gel. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
- Respiratory conditions: Timolol may worsen symptoms in individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any respiratory conditions before using Timoptic-XE.
- Cardiovascular conditions: Timolol can affect heart function and blood pressure. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any heart conditions, low blood pressure, or a history of heart rhythm disorders before using Timoptic-XE.
- Diabetes: Timolol may mask certain symptoms of low blood sugar, such as increased heart rate. Individuals with diabetes should closely monitor their blood sugar levels while using Timoptic-XE.
- Thyroid disorders: Timolol can interfere with the body’s response to low blood sugar, which may be problematic for individuals with thyroid disorders.
- Eye surgery: If you are scheduled for eye surgery, inform your healthcare provider that you are using Timoptic-XE, as it may interact with certain medications used during the procedure.
- Contact lenses: Timoptic-XE contains preservatives that may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Remove your contact lenses before using the medication and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
- Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy of Timoptic-XE in children under the age of 2 have not been established. Dosage and use in pediatric patients should be determined by a doctor.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Timoptic-XE during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. They will weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks to determine if its use is appropriate.
