Trusopt

Drug Name
Dorzolamide Ophthalmic
(dor zole' a mide)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Dorzolamide is used to treat glaucoma, a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision. Dorzolamide decreases the pressure in the eye.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Dorzolamide comes as eyedrops. Dorzolamide eyedrops usually are applied three times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use dorzolamide exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Dorzolamide controls glaucoma but does not cure it. Continue to use dorzolamide even if you feel well. Do not stop using dorzolamide without talking to your doctor.

For eyedrop installation instructions, click here.


What special precautions should I follow?

Before using dorzolamide eyedrops:

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to dorzolamide, other antibiotics, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.

• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially eye medications, products that contain aspirin, and vitamins.

• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.

• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using dorzolamide, call your doctor immediately.

• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using dorzolamide.

• if you are using another eyedrop medication, use the eye medications at least 10 minutes apart.

• tell your doctor if you wear soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using the medicine to put in soft contact lenses.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from dorzolamide are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• stinging, burning, or discomfort in the eye after inserting the drops
• bitter taste after inserting the drops
• sensitivity to light
• upset stomach
• vomiting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using dorzolamide and call your doctor immediately:

• itching eyes
• redness or swelling eyes
• watery eyes
• dryness
• skin rash

What storage conditions are needed for this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will order certain eye tests to check your response to dorzolamide.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.