Indications 

Cosopt is a prescription ophthalmic solution indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension to prevent blindness. 

This eye drop is typically prescribed when the use of beta-blocking medications alone has proven to be ineffective in adequately controlling elevated eye pressure. 

Cosopt is classified as an antiglaucoma combo comprised of dorzolamide, an ophthalmic carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, and timolol, a beta-blocker. These two components lower pressure in the eye by reducing aqueous humor secretion. 

Uses and Dosage 

Prior to utilizing Cosopt, and with each subsequent refill, carefully examine the patient information leaflet and medication guide to ensure proper usage. Consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have any questions or require further clarification. 

Cosopt is intended for ocular use only. It is typically administered as a single drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily or per your physician’s instructions. 

Be sure to remove contact lenses if wearing one before administration of the eye drop. Allow 15-minute intervals before placing them back. 

Wash your hands before instilling the eye medication.  

To prevent contamination, do not touch the tip of the dropper. Do not let the tip touch any surface and even the eye. 

To administer eye drops: 

• Tilt your head back and look upward 
• Pull down the lower eyelid to create a pouch 
• Hold the dropper directly over your eye and instill one drop 
• Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes 
• Apply gentle pressure with one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) 
• Avoid blinking or rubbing your eye to prevent the medication from draining out 
• If directed, repeat the above steps for the other eye 

After administering the medication, do not rinse the dropper. Securely replace the cap and ensure it is tightly sealed. 

Store Cosopt at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light sources.  

If using an extra form of ocular medication (such as drops or ointments), allow at least 5 minutes before each product.  

When utilizing both eye drops and ointments, apply the eye drops first to ensure optimal absorption, followed by the ointment. 

For optimal results, use these eye drops regularly. To help you remember, administer it at a consistent time every day. 

Side Effects 

Potential adverse reactions associated with the use of Cosopt are listed below; if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, inform your physician or pharmacist 

Common Side Effects 

• Blurred vision 
• Burning, stinging sensations, redness, tearing, and itching of the eye 
• Bitter, sour, or atypical taste following administration of the eye drop 

Serious Side Effects  

• Signs of severe breathing problems or heart failure: 
  • Rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeats 
  • Respiratory symptoms like wheezing 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Edema or swelling in the lower extremities 
  • Sudden or significant weight gain 
• Signs of serious sulfa (sulfonamide) reactions: 
  • Severe skin reactions 
  • Liver problems 
  • Blood problems 
• Signs of damage to the cornea: 
  • Eye redness 
  • Watery eyes 
  • Reduced visual acuity 
  • Heightened sensitivity to light 
• Exacerbation of muscular weakness 
• Ocular redness or swelling  
• Vision problems such as droopy eyelids  

Get medical help immediately if any of the above serious side effects occur. 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic response to Cosopt is rare; however, get medical attention immediately if any of the following symptoms are observed: 

• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or tongue 
• Respiratory difficulties, including trouble breathing and wheezing 
• Severe itching or hives 
• Skin rash, redness, or swelling 
• Dizziness or fainting 
• Elevated heart rate or palpitations 
• Sweating 

Coreg’s side effects listed here are incomplete. If unlisted bothersome side effects occur, consult with a healthcare professional. 

Cautions 

Before using Cosopt, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies or if you have had an allergic reaction to timolol or dorzolamide.  

Inactive ingredients, such as benzalkonium chloride, may be present in this eye drop, which could potentially trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects. For additional information, please consult with your pharmacist. 

Disclose your medical history to your doctor, particularly if you have had any of the following conditions: 

• Lung diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 
• Certain types of irregular heartbeats, such as sinus bradycardia or second or third-degree AV block 
• Certain types of heart disease, such as heart failure 
• Kidney disease, such as kidney stones 
• Liver disease 
• Diabetes 
• Overactive thyroid disease 
• Muscle weakness disorders 
• Cerebrovascular insufficiency, commonly known as low blood flow to the brain 
• Severe allergies 

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications you currently take, including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products, to avoid potential drug interactions. 

Listed below are products that may interact with Cosopt: 

• High doses of aspirin or related salicylates 
• Oral beta-blockers, such as propranolol 
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors administered orally, such as acetazolamide or methazolamide 
• Clonidine 
• Certain antidepressants, including SSRIs such as fluoxetine 
• Digoxin 
• Epinephrine 
• Methyldopa 
• Quinidine 

If you experience an eye injury or infection or undergo surgery while using Cosopt, consult with your physician regarding the continued use of the same container of eye drops. 

After the application of this eye drop, there may be a temporary blurring of your vision. Refrain from operating machinery, driving, or engaging in activities that require clear vision until it is safe to do so. 

Pregnant women should only use Cosopt if it is deemed necessary. Discuss with your doctor its potential risks and benefits. 

Timolol can be excreted into breast milk, while it is unclear whether dorzolamide is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using Cosopt.