Azopt

Azopt Eye Drops (Brinzolamide) contain the active ingredient brinzolamide, which belongs to a class of medicines known as "carbonic anhydrase inhibitors". Azopt Eye Drops are used, either alone or in combination with other eye drops/medicines, to lower raised pressure in the eye and to treat glaucoma. Glaucoma is usually caused by a build up of the fluid which flows through the eye, leading to an increase in the pressure within the eye; some people with glaucoma may, however, have normal pressure within the eye.

Azopt Eye Drops lower the pressure within the eye by reducing the production of fluid. Although Azopt Eye Drops help to control your glaucoma, they do not cure it. Azopt Eye Drops are not addictive.

The usual dose of Azopt Eye Drops (Brinzolamide) is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice each day. Follow all directions given to you by your physician carefully. Use Azopt Eye Drops at about the same time every day unless your physician tells you otherwise.

If you are being changed from one eye drop to another, follow your physician`s instructions carefully as to when to stop the old drops and when to start the new drops. After using Azopt Eye Drops wait at least 5 minutes before putting any other eye drops in your eye(s). If you are unsure about when, or how, to stop using Azopt Eye Drops you should talk to your physician.

All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some of the side effects. Tell your physician as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are using Azopt Eye Drops.

Most side effects from Azopt Eye Drops occur in, or around, the eye. These include:

• Blurred or abnormal vision
• Irritation or feeling of something in the eye(s)
• Redness of the eye(s)
• Dry eye(s)
• Discharge from the eye(s)
• Itchy eye(s)
• Watering of the eye(s)

Additional side effects that are noticed more rarely in the eye include:

• Swelling of the eyelid(s)
• Crusty eyelashes
• Sticky sensation in the eye(s)
• Tired eye(s)
• Sensitivity to bright lights
• Double vision

Occasionally some people notice unwanted effects in the rest of their body as a result of using Azopt Eye Drops. These effects may include:

• Chest pain
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Dry mouth and/or nose
• Nausea, indigestion, diarrhoea and/or upset stomach
• Tingling, numbness and/or dizziness
• Depression
• Abnormal dreams
• Muscle stiffness
• Agitation
• Loss of memory
• Nervousness
• Sore throat and/or coughing
• Bleeding nose
• Hair loss
• Persistent noises in the ear(s)
• Impotence
• Kidney pain

Tell your physician immediately if any of the following side effects are noticed:

• Skin rash, itching and/or hives
• Shortness of breath

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. Let your physician know if you observe any unwanted effects while using Azopt Eye Drops, even if they do not appear in the lists above.

If you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction, seek emergency medical attention. Possible symptoms include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, swelling, chest tightness, skin rashes, and hives.

Azopt Eye Drops (Brinzolamide) should only be used as instructed and prescribed by your physician or pharmacist. Do not alter your dosage unless specifically instructed to do so by either of the above. Dosage and usage often depends on the severity of the condition, as well as the patient`s medical history and current health condition.

Before you begin using this medication, ensure your physician is aware of the following:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you have any allergies.
• If you have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.
• If you are using any other drugs or medication.
• If you are using any vitamins or supplements.