Indications 

Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension is prescribed to lower elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in individuals with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. 

This ophthalmic suspension contains two active ingredients: brinzolamide (a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) and brimonidine tartrate (an alpha 2 adrenergic receptor agonist). Together, they work to lower the pressure in the eye by reducing the production of aqueous humor.  

Brinzolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in aqueous humor production, while brimonidine tartrate blocks adenylate cyclase, another enzyme in this process. Brimonidine also enhances the drainage of aqueous humor from the eye’s anterior chamber. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the information leaflet enclosed in the packaging of Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension before using it for the first time and with each prescription refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist for assistance. 

The usual recommended dose of Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily. 

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this ophthalmic suspension. Wait at least 15 minutes before putting your contact lenses back in. 

To properly apply Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension: 

1. Begin by washing your hands.  
   • Avoid contamination by refraining from touching the dropper tip or allowing it to come into contact with your eye or any surfaces.  
2. Prior to each use, ensure that the bottle is well-shaken.  
3. Tilt your head back and pull down the lower eyelid to create a pouch. 
4. Hold the dropper over your eye, then squeeze a drop directly into the pouch. 
5. Close your eyes, apply gentle pressure near the nose for 1-2 minutes, and refrain from blinking or rubbing your eyes.  
6. If instructed, repeat these steps for the other eye.  
7. After each use, replace the dropper cap without rinsing it. 

This ophthalmic suspension can be used alongside other topical eye medications to reduce IOP. When using multiple eye medications, administer them at least five (5) minutes apart for optimal effectiveness. 

Use Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension regularly, exactly as directed by your doctor, at the same times each day to get the most benefit from it. 

Continue using this ophthalmic suspension even if you are not experiencing any discomfort, as individuals with glaucoma or elevated eye pressure may not exhibit symptoms. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Eye discomfort, itching, redness, or discharge 
• Temporary blurred vision 
• Dry eyes or sensation of a foreign object in the eye 
• Dry mouth 
• Bitter, sour, or unusual taste in the mouth 
• Dizziness 
• Drowsiness 
• Tiredness 
• Headache 

Tell your doctor promptly if any of the listed common side effects continue or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Fast or pounding heartbeat 
• Eye or eyelid pain, burning, or swelling 
• Extreme sensitivity to light 
• Changes in vision 

Inform your doctor right away if you exhibit any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience severe side effects such as fainting or a slow/irregular heartbeat. 

Allergic Reactions 

Get emergency medical help if you experience symptoms of an allergic response to Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, such as: 

• Hives 
• Trouble breathing 
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 
• Skin rash  
• Severe dizziness 

This list does not cover all side effects of Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension. Report to your doctor if other side effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before using Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, inform your doctor of any known allergies, especially to brinzolamide, brimonidine, apraclonidine, or any inactive ingredients present in the ophthalmic suspension. 

Disclose to your doctor your medical history before using Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, especially if you have experienced any of the following:  

• Blood vessel diseases (e.g., thromboangiitis obliterans) 
• Blood circulation disorders (e.g., cerebral or coronary insufficiency) 
• Depression 
• Heart disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Raynaud’s disease 
• Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing) 

Let your doctor know about all your medications, such as prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products, to lower the risk of drug interaction with Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension. 

Ensure to review the labels of all your medications, including allergy or cough-and-cold products, as they may contain ingredients causing drowsiness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the safe use of such products.  

Furthermore, inform your doctor if you are using other products causing drowsiness, including: 

• Alcohol  
• Marijuana (cannabis) 
• Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) 
• Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem) 
• Muscle relaxants 
• Opioid pain relievers (e.g., codeine) 

Exercise caution when driving, operating machinery, or participating in hazardous activities after using Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, as it may cause drowsiness and temporary vision blurring. 

During pregnancy, Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension should only be used when necessary. Consult your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits. 

Avoid breastfeeding while using Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension, as the potential transfer of brimonidine and brinzolamide into breast milk and their impact on nursing infants is not fully understood.