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Printable Version Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops

Active Ingredients: Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops
Other Names: Betimol
Drug Class: Beta-Blockers - Ophthalmics
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops? (Back to top)
TIMOLOL is used in the eye to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • diabetes
  • heart or blood vessel disease like slow heart rate, worsening heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome or Raynaud's disease
  • lung disease like asthma or emphysema
  • thyroid disease
  • wear contact lenses
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to timolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If you are using a unit dose container, use immediately after opening and throw away right after use. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops and apply gentle finger pressure to the inner corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

  • clonidine
  • medicines for high blood pressure
  • medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
  • medicines for diabetes
  • medicines for mental depression like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline
  • medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances
  • medicines to control heart rhythm

Do not use other eye products with this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • changes in blood sugar
  • cold hands or feet
  • confusion, hallucinations
  • difficulty breathing, wheezing
  • difficulty sleeping, nightmares
  • dizziness or fainting spells
  • irregular heartbeat, palpitations, chest pain
  • skin rash, itching, peeling skin
  • slow heart rate
  • swelling of the legs or ankles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • blurred vision
  • burning stinging or itching of the eyes or eyelids
  • increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

This list may not describe all possible side effects.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular exams. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you should continue to use this medicine if you injure your eyes, get an eye infection, or need eye surgery.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly.

If you wear soft contact lenses, you should not put this medicine in your eyes while wearing the lenses. After using the eye drops, wait about 15 minutes before putting lenses in your eyes.

Wear dark glasses if this medicine makes your eyes more sensitive to light.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. After opening the foil wrap of unit dose eye drops (Ocudose), use within 1 month. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:June 26, 2007

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops

  Learn how Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops is/are used to treat:
  • Glaucoma

      Learn more about using Eyedrops

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Timolol Hemihydrate Eyedrops, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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