Cosopt
Generic Name: Dorzolamide
What is Cosopt?
Cosopt is an eyedrop used to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension (high pressue in the eye). It is often used when another eyedrop medication alone is not adequate to control eye pressure.What is the most important information I should know about Cosopt?
Even though Cosopt is applied directly to the eye, the medication can still be absorbed in your bloodstream and cause serious adverse reactions, especially if you are allergic to sulfa-containing drugs. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a rash or trouble breathing.Eye medications, if handled improperly, can become contaminated by common bacteria known to cause eye infections. Serious damage to the eye and subsequent loss of vision may result from using contaminated eye medications. If you think your medication may be contaminated, or if you develop an eye infection, contact your doctor immediately. Also tell your doctor if your eye becomes red or swollen or if you plan on having any type of surgery.
Do not share this medication with anyone else.
Who should not take Cosopt?
Do not use Cosopt if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or if you have breathing or lung problems, a slow or irregular heartbeat, or heart failure.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Cosopt?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Cosopt. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of breathing or lung problems, high blood sugar, thyroid problems, kidney or liver problems, are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults and children ≥ 2 years: The usual dose is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) two times a day.
How should I take Cosopt?
If you are using Cosopt with another eyedrop, the medications should be used at least 10 minutes apart.Cosopt contains a preservative that may be absorbed by your contact lenses. Remove your contact lenses prior to administration of the eyedrop and reinsert after 15 minutes.
Before using the medication for the first time, tear off the safety strip to break the seal. To open the bottle, unscrew the cap by turning it as indicated by the arrows. Do not pull the cap directly up and away from the bottle. Pulling the cap directly up will prevent your dispenser from operating properly.
Before administration, wash your hands thoroughly. To apply Cosopt, tilt your head back and pull your lower eyelid down slightly to form a pocket between your eyelid and your eye. Invert the bottle, and press lightly with the thumb or index finger over the "finger push area" until a single drop is dispensed into the eye. Repeat the process for the other eye, then replace the cap.
What should I avoid while taking Cosopt?
Do not allow the tip of the bottle to touch the eye or areas around the eye to prevent the contamination of your medicine.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Cosopt?
If Cosopt is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cosopt with any of the following: beta-blockers such as propranolol, calcium-channel blockers such as nifedipine, clonidine, digitalis in combination with calcium-channel blockers, injectable epinephrine, oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as acetazolamide, quinidine, reserpine, and antidepressant medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.What are the possible side effects of Cosopt?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: bitter or sour taste after applying the eyedrop, blurred vision, burning and stinging, eye redness, tearing, or itching
Can I receive Cosopt if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Cosopt during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Cosopt?
Apply Cosopt drops as soon as you remember. If it is within 8 hours of your next scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not apply two doses at once.How should I store Cosopt?
Store at room temperature, away from light.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
