Timolol
Timolol eye drops reduce fluid production inside the eye and may be used for open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Eye drops can still produce systemic beta-blocker effects.
Key points
- Timolol can slow the heart or worsen asthma despite being applied to the eye.
- Heart conduction, breathing disease, diabetes and other beta blockers or rate-slowing medicines require review.
- Severe breathlessness, fainting, a very slow heartbeat or sudden vision loss needs urgent care.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
How it works
Timolol blocks beta receptors in the ciliary body, reducing aqueous-fluid production and intraocular pressure.
Important safety checks
Asthma, COPD, a slow pulse, heart block, heart failure and low blood glucose risk require review. Punctal pressure after application can reduce systemic absorption. Use the prescribed eye only and do not stop glaucoma treatment without the eye-care team.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for severe wheezing or breathlessness, fainting, a very slow or irregular heartbeat with weakness, facial swelling or sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.
Further reading
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