What is Simbrinza Ophthalmic Suspension (Brinzolamide/Brimonidine Tartrate) prescribed for?

Simbrinza is a fixed combination of a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and an alpha 2 adrenergic receptor agonist. In short, this medication is a combination of two drugs: Brinzolamide and Brimonidine Tartrate. Combinted together these two medications work to reduce the amount of fluid in the eye, which in turn, decreases the pressure from inside the eye. Normally this medication is used to treat open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, which would be the high pressure inside the eye.

Be sure to use this medication directly as prescribed. Follow any and all directions on the prescription label and do not use this medication in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than what has been recommended to you. And be sure to read up on any information given to you if it comes in the form of a pamphlet or leaflet, if you have any questions regarding this medication, it is best to ask your doctor.

Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses, since Simbrinza may contain a preservative that can discolour soft contact lenses. It is best to wait for at least 15 minutes after using this medication before putting in your contact lenses.

Wash your hands before using the eye drops, and when ready to use make sure to shake the bottle well before use.

When ready to use, tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eye lid to create a pouch. Then hold the dropper directly above the eye, then insert the prescribed amount of drops into the pouch. Close your eyes for about 2 to 3 minutes with your head tipped back, without any squinting and try not to blink.

When finished, if you have to use other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes before using the other eye drops. Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. If it is contaminated, it can affect your eye.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic Brinzolamide or Brimonidine Tartrate; or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

It is best to inform your doctor of your medical history. Therefore, it is best to speak with your doctor if you have ever suffered from any of the following; kidney disease; liver disease; congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, history of stroke or blood clot; high or low blood pressure; circulation problems, such as Raynaud's syndrome (numbness or cold feeling in your fingers or toes); depression; an allergy to sulfa drugs; or narrow-angle glaucoma.

While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. blurred vision; mild itching, redness, or irritation of your eyes; or dry mouth, unpleasant taste all may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.

There may be other signs of an allergic reaction that may develop more slowly while using this medication. Inform you doctor if you are experiencing any of the following; sudden liver failure--nausea, vomiting, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), confusion, rapid weight gain, (especially in your midsection); bone marrow suppression--sudden weakness or ill feeling, fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, red or swollen gums, trouble swallowing, pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating; or severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

If you begin to experience these side effects, inform your doctor at once. They are as follows; blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights; or eye swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage (may be signs of infection).

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon as you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.