If you’ve been told you need eye drops to control pressure, you’ve probably heard the name dorzolamide. It’s a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that lowers fluid production inside the eye, which helps keep intra‑ocular pressure (IOP) down. Lower IOP means less risk of damage to the optic nerve – the main cause of glaucoma.
Unlike some older drops that can sting or blur vision for a while, dorzolamide is usually well tolerated. It’s often sold as a 2% solution you put in each eye two or three times a day. The drug works locally, so it doesn’t travel much into the bloodstream, which reduces systemic side effects.
Dorzolamide is most common for open‑angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. If your eye pressure stays high even after using a prostaglandin drop, an eye doctor might add dorzolamide to the mix. Some patients use it as a single therapy when prostaglandins aren’t suitable – for example, if they have allergies or inflammation that makes other drops risky.
Doctors also like dorzolamide because you can combine it with other classes without worrying about drug interactions in the eye. It pairs well with beta‑blocker drops (like timolol) and sometimes with alpha agonists. The combination often achieves a bigger pressure drop than either drug alone, which is handy for people whose numbers stay stubbornly high.
Typical dosing is one drop in each affected eye twice daily, usually morning and evening. Some patients need three times a day; the doctor will adjust based on pressure readings. It’s important to follow the schedule exactly – missing doses can let pressure creep back up.
First thing: always get dorzolamide from a licensed pharmacy. Counterfeit eye drops can cause infections or worse damage. Look for sites that show a physical address, a valid pharmacy license number, and secure https encryption.
If you order online, double‑check the product’s expiration date and packaging integrity when it arrives. The bottle should be sealed, and the liquid inside should look clear – no cloudiness or particles.
When you start using dorzolamide, keep an eye (pun intended) on side effects. Common complaints are a bitter taste, mild stinging, or temporary blurred vision after dropping. If you notice persistent redness, swelling, or pain, stop the drops and call your eye doctor right away.
Don’t mix dorzolamide with other eye medications unless your doctor says it’s okay. If you need to use more than one drop, wait at least five minutes between them so each can be absorbed properly.
Lastly, store the drops at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration isn’t needed and could cause condensation inside the bottle, which isn’t ideal for eye health.
With the right information and a reliable source, dorzolamide can be a simple, effective tool to keep your eyes safe. Keep regular check‑ups, track your pressure numbers, and follow the dosing schedule – that’s the fastest route to protecting your vision.
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