Dorzolamide/Timolol Eye Drops: SmPC Summary
Quick summary: Dorzolamide/timolol 20 mg/ml + 5 mg/ml eye drops is a prescription combination used to help lower raised intraocular pressure in glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It combines two medicines with different actions in...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: Dorzolamide/timolol 20 mg/ml + 5 mg/ml eye drops is a prescription combination used to help lower raised intraocular pressure in glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It combines two medicines with different actions in one eye drop.
This page is a plain-English summary of the product information. Always check the official leaflet or SmPC and follow advice from your eye specialist or pharmacist.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace the official SmPC, patient leaflet, or advice from a qualified healthcare professional. It is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.
What is dorzolamide/timolol eye drops?
Dorzolamide/timolol 20 mg/ml + 5 mg/ml eye drops is a prescription ophthalmic solution used to help reduce raised intraocular pressure (IOP). It contains two active ingredients in one product: dorzolamide and timolol.
The combination is used in glaucoma care, including open-angle glaucoma and pseudo-exfoliative glaucoma, where lowering eye pressure is an important treatment goal.
How does it work?
The two ingredients work in different ways to help lower pressure inside the eye:
- Dorzolamide helps reduce the production of aqueous humour, the fluid inside the eye.
- Timolol also helps reduce aqueous humour production.
Using both medicines together can provide a combined pressure-lowering effect in a single eye drop formulation.
What is it used for?
This medicine is used to help manage elevated eye pressure in people with glaucoma or ocular hypertension, where a clinician has decided that a dorzolamide/timolol combination is appropriate.
It is not a cure for glaucoma, but it may form part of a long-term treatment plan aimed at protecting vision by controlling pressure in the eye.
How is it usually used?
The current content states the usual regimen as one drop in the affected eye twice daily. Always follow the directions on the prescription label and the official product information.
Correct technique matters. Avoid touching the dropper tip, and keep the bottle clean to reduce the risk of contamination.
Important ingredients and formulation notes
Each millilitre contains 20 mg dorzolamide and 5 mg timolol. Some formulations also contain benzalkonium chloride as a preservative.
Preservatives can matter for some people with sensitive eyes or ocular surface problems, so it is sensible to check the exact product details in the leaflet.
Precautions to be aware of
Before using this medicine, the original content highlights the need for caution in people with certain respiratory, cardiac, hepatic, or renal problems. A healthcare professional should review suitability based on the full medical history.
General practical precautions include:
- Wash hands before use.
- Do not let the dropper tip touch the eye or any surface.
- Check whether contact lenses should be removed before use, according to the leaflet.
- Tell a clinician or pharmacist about other medicines being used, including other eye drops.
Possible side effects
The current content mentions these common side effects:
- Burning or stinging after application
- Blurred vision
- Redness or itching of the eye
More serious symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling, or severe dizziness need prompt medical attention.
If side effects persist or become troublesome, the official leaflet and a healthcare professional should be consulted.
Are there alternatives?
The original content notes that other glaucoma medicines may be used depending on the person and the treatment plan. Examples mentioned include:
- Prostaglandin analogues
- Other beta-blockers
- Alpha agonists
The most suitable option depends on the individual situation and should be decided by a qualified prescriber.
At a glance
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Medicine type | Combination eye drop |
| Active ingredients | Dorzolamide and timolol |
| Main use | To help lower raised intraocular pressure |
| Conditions mentioned | Open-angle glaucoma and pseudo-exfoliative glaucoma |
| Commonly stated dose | One drop in the affected eye twice daily |
Frequently asked questions
▸ What is dorzolamide 20 mg/ml timolol 5 mg/ml?
It refers to the strength of the two active ingredients in the eye drops: 20 mg of dorzolamide and 5 mg of timolol per millilitre of solution.
▸ What is this medicine used for?
It is used to help lower raised intraocular pressure in glaucoma and ocular hypertension, as described in the source content.
▸ What are the most common side effects mentioned?
The source content lists burning or stinging, blurred vision, and redness or itching of the eye.
▸ Can contact lens wearers use it?
The original content advises checking the product instructions and avoiding use while wearing contact lenses unless the leaflet or clinician says otherwise.
▸ Why might a pharmacist or doctor need to review it?
Because the medicine may need caution in people with certain respiratory, cardiac, liver, or kidney problems, and it may interact with other medicines.
▸ Are there alternatives for glaucoma treatment?
Yes. The source content mentions prostaglandin analogues, other beta-blockers, and alpha agonists as possible alternatives depending on the person and the treatment plan.
Safety reminder
If you have symptoms that worry you, or if you are unsure whether this medicine is suitable for you, speak to a qualified healthcare professional and check the official SmPC or patient leaflet. Do not rely on this summary alone for treatment decisions.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.