Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops 5%, 5 ml
- $8.00
What is Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops?
Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops contain 5% timolol, a type of medication known as a beta-blocker. These eye drops are primarily used to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), making them effective in treating conditions like open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. By lowering the pressure in the eye, Ocumed® helps prevent further damage to the optic nerve, which is crucial for maintaining good vision.
How do Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops work?
Ocumed® Eye Drops work by reducing the production of aqueous humor, the clear fluid inside the eye. By doing so, it helps to lower the intraocular pressure. This is particularly important in conditions such as open-angle glaucoma, where increased pressure can lead to gradual vision loss if left untreated.
Who should use Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops?
These eye drops are typically recommended for people with:
- Open-angle glaucoma
- Ocular hypertension (increased eye pressure)
- Post-cataract surgery to manage eye pressure
- Secondary glaucoma
It’s also sometimes used in combination therapy for certain types of glaucoma, such as closed-angle glaucoma, alongside other medications.
How should I use Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops?
The recommended dosage for Ocumed® is one drop in the affected eye(s) once or twice a day. For best results, follow your doctor's specific instructions on the frequency of use. To avoid contamination, make sure not to touch the tip of the bottle to any surface, including your eyes.
Steps for application:
- Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
- Tilt your head back and pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Squeeze one drop into the pocket without touching the eye with the dropper.
- Close your eyes and press gently on the inner corner for 2-3 minutes to prevent the medicine from draining into the tear duct, enhancing its absorption.
Avoid wearing contact lenses while using the drops, and wait at least 15 minutes after using the drops before putting lenses back in.
What precautions should I be aware of?
Ocumed® can enter the bloodstream through the eyes, potentially causing side effects similar to those experienced with oral beta-blockers. Conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart problems should be disclosed to your healthcare provider, as timolol may worsen these conditions.
Regular monitoring of eye pressure is recommended, especially in the first few weeks of treatment. Additionally, tell your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest pain.
Precautions include:
- Respiratory issues: Timolol may cause breathing difficulties, especially in those with asthma or COPD.
- Heart problems: It may cause slow heart rate, low blood pressure, or worsen existing heart conditions.
- Blood sugar monitoring: If you have diabetes, timolol may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy is not recommended unless absolutely necessary, and it can pass into breast milk.
What are the possible side effects of Ocumed® (Timolol)?
Like all medications, Ocumed® may cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Eye discomfort or dryness
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Tiredness or fatigue
Less commonly, you might experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Depression or confusion
If you experience any severe side effects, such as signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling), contact your healthcare provider immediately.
How should Ocumed® (Timolol) Eye Drops be stored?
Store Ocumed® Eye Drops at a temperature below 25°C (77°F), and avoid freezing the medication.
After opening, the drops are good for up to 45 days. Make sure to keep them out of reach of children and protected from light.
Can I use Ocumed® Eye Drops with other medications?
If you are taking other medications, especially beta-blockers or medications for heart conditions, inform your doctor, as combining these can increase the risk of side effects. If you're using other eye drops, wait at least five minutes between applications.
