Timolol + Pilocarpine

Timolol + Pilocarpine — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is mainly prescribed for the treatment of glaucoma, a condition that causes increased pressure inside the eye which can damage the optic nerve if not controlled.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Lowering high pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure)
• Managing open-angle glaucoma
• Managing certain other types of glaucoma when advised by an eye specialist

HOW IT WORKS

• Timolol reduces the amount of fluid produced inside the eye
• Pilocarpine causes the pupil to constrict and helps open the drainage channels so fluid can flow out more easily
• Together they lower the pressure inside the eye through two different actions

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for red eye due to infection or allergy
• Not used for dry eyes
• Not used for correcting refractive errors like short-sightedness
• Not a painkiller or general eye lubricant

How to Use Timolol + Pilocarpine

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Use only in the eye(s), exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Wash your hands before applying the drops
• Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid, and place the drop inside without touching the dropper tip to the eye
• Press gently on the inner corner of the eye for a minute after applying to reduce absorption into the body
• If using other eye drops too, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different drops
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor, as eye pressure may rise again

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Apply it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not apply double the amount to make up for a missed dose

STORAGE

• Store as directed on the label, usually below 25°C, away from direct sunlight
• Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from children
• Discard the bottle after the period mentioned on the label once opened

Timolol + Pilocarpine — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Temporary blurred vision
• Stinging or burning in the eye after applying drops
• Watering of the eyes
• Headache
• Difficulty seeing in dim light due to smaller pupil size

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Browache or eye pain
• Sensitivity to light
• Dry eyes
• Slow heart rate
• Mild breathlessness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Sudden vision loss or severe eye pain
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or eyelids

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Timolol + Pilocarpine — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under the supervision of an eye specialist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have asthma or a history of severe breathing problems
• Have a very slow heart rate or certain heart conditions like heart block
• Have severe heart failure
• Are allergic to timolol, pilocarpine, or any other ingredient in the drops

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, as this medicine can mask low blood sugar symptoms
• Have thyroid problems
• Have a history of retinal detachment or eye injury
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Wear contact lenses
• Are scheduled for any surgery, including eye surgery

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other beta-blocker tablets or eye drops
• Medicines for high blood pressure or heart conditions
• Certain medicines for irregular heartbeat
• Other glaucoma eye drops
• Medicines that affect the nervous system, such as certain antidepressants

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after using these eye drops?

Your vision may be blurred for a short while after application, so wait until your vision is clear before driving.

Can I use this medicine along with contact lenses?

Tell your doctor, as you may need to remove lenses before applying the drops and wait before putting them back.

Will I need to use this medicine long term?

• Glaucoma often needs long-term treatment, so continue using it regularly as advised even if you feel fine.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.