DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: dorzolamide BRAND NAME: Trusopt
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Many parts of the body, including the eye, contain the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. Carbonic anhydrase plays a key role in controlling the production of fluid particularly within the eye. In turn, the amount of fluid within in the eye determines the pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure). Dorzolamide blocks the enzyme, carbonic anhydrase, and is used as eye drops in the treatment of glaucoma , a condition in which the fluid and pressure in the eye is increased. Following administration of dorzolamide to the eye, intraocular pressure is lowered. This reduces the risk of nerve damage and loss of vision that is caused by increases of intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma. Dorzolamide was approved by the FDA in 1994.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PREPARATIONS: Ophthalmic solution 2%: 5ml.
STORAGE: Dorzolamide should be kept at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F) and protected from direct light.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Dorzolamide is used for the treatment of glaucoma.
DOSING: Patients should wash both hands before each use of dorzolamide or any other eye medication. The head is tilted back and the lower eyelid is pulled down with the index finger to form a pouch. The tip of the dropper should not touch the eye or eyelid. The bottle is squeezed slightly to allow the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. The eye is closed gently for 1 to 2 minutes without blinking. The usual dose is one drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: No drug interactions have been described with dorzolamide eye drops.
PREGNANCY: When large doses of dorzolamide have been given orally to animals, there have been some abnormal effects on fetal development. There have been no adequate studies in pregnant women , however. Physicians may use dorzolamide if its benefits are felt to outweigh its potential (and unknown) risks.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if dorzolamide is excreted into breast milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects with dorzolamide eye drops include irritation, burning, stinging or discomfort of the eye. These effects are generally temporary and occur immediately after administration. About 1 of every 4 of patients report a bitter taste in their mouth. Approximately 1 in 10 patients reports some sort of allergic reaction limited to the eye. Bacterial infections of the eye have been reported and are thought to be due to accidental contamination of the containers with bacteria during handling of the container. Other less common side effects include blurred vision, excessive tearing, increased sensitivity to light, and dry eyes.
Dorzolamide is a sulfonamide (sulfa) and can be absorbed systemically. Sulfas can produce severe, allergic reactions. Persons who are allergic to sulfas may also react to dorzolamide. Therefore, dorzolamide should not be administered to patients with allergies to sulfas.
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