Azopt

Generic Name: brinzolamide ophthalmic
Brands: Azopt

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What is the most important information I should know about Azopt?

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Apply light pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down the tear duct.

 

What is Azopt?

· Azopt reduces the amount of fluid in the eye. This reduction in fluid decreases pressure inside the eye.

· Azopt is used to treat open-angle glaucoma or high pressure in the eye.

· Azopt may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Azopt?

· Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a sulfa-based drug such as trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra), sulfisoxazole (Gantrisin), sulfamethoxazole (Gantanol), or sulfacetamide sodium (Bleph-10, Sulamyd Sodium). Azopt is also based on a sulfa compound, and you may have an allergic reaction to it.

· Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may not be able to use brinzolamide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

· Azopt is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Azopt will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Azopt without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether brinzolamide passes into breast milk. Do not use Azopt without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I use Azopt?

· Use Azopt eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Wash your hands before using the eye drops. Shake the container well.

 

· If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Azopt. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Azopt may contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.

· To apply the eye drops:     ·Tilt the head back slightly and pull down on the lower eyelid. Position the dropper above the eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close the eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down the tear duct. If you are using more than 1 drop in the same eye, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops. Repeat the process in the other eye if needed.

· Azopt is usually used three times a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Do not use any eye drop that is discolored or has particles in it.

· Store Azopt at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and apply only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Symptoms of a Azopt overdose are unknown. If you suspect an overdose or if the drops have been ingested (taken by mouth), flush the eye with water and call an emergency room or poison control center for advice.

 

What should I avoid while using Azopt?

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying an ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication. Azopt may contain a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), which may cause discoloration of contact lenses.

· Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Azopt except under the direction of your doctor.

 

What are the possible side effects of Azopt?

· If you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to Azopt, stop using the medication and seek emergency medical attention.

· Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Azopt and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·burning, stinging, itching, or watering of the eye;     ·blurred vision;     ·sensitivity of the eye to sunlight;     ·a change in taste;     ·headache;     ·fatigue;     ·a rash; or     ·nausea.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Azopt?

· Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Azopt except under the direction of your doctor.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Azopt. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Azopt written for health professionals that you may read.

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