Trusopt is an ophthalmic (eye) solution made up of a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor called dorzolamide. We carry both the brand name Trusopt and its generic alternative in 2%.

Trusopt (dorzolamide) is used to help treat an eye condition called open-angle glaucoma. This is a condition that causes eye pain, headache, cloudy vision, and eye redness. Open-angle glaucoma is a condition where the angle in the eye, where the iris meets the cornea, is open and as wide as it should be, however, the eyes drainage canals can become blocked. Over time, this will cause a buildup of fluid in the eye, which causes high pressure.  Additionally, this medication may be used for any condition that causes high pressure to occur in the eye.

Trusopt (dorzolamide) is effective at treating open-angle glaucoma because it is able to decrease the amount of fluid found in the eye. When the fluid in the eye is reduced, it lowers the pressure.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor, and only your doctor. If you were contact lenses, you will need to remove them when applying this medication, and leave them out for 15 minutes following. If the color of your Trusopt solution has changed; do not use it.  Store at room temperature in a low risk area of moisture, heat, and light.

How to administer Trusopt (dorzolamide)

1. Tilt your head back
2. Look upward
3. Form a pouch by pulling down on your lower eye lid
4. Hold dropper above eye; apply 1 drop into the pouch
5. Look down and gently close your eyes for 1 – 2 minutes

Do not use Trusopt (dorzolamide)

If you are allergic to dorzolamide, do not use this medication. Other medications you may be more familiar with that contain this drug include Alzor, Cosopt, or Cosopt PF; if you’re allergic to these brands, do not use this one (Trusopt).

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

Before starting treatment, tell your doctor if you have ever had a sulfa drug allergy, narrow-angled glaucoma, or liver disease.

Risks

It is not known whether this medication is safe for a pregnant woman, in regards to her unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant until you have spoken to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

It may not be safe to breast feed while using Trusopt. Speak with your doctor about your risk.

Common side effects of Trusopt (dorzolamide) may include:

• burning or stinging in your eye;

• mild eye discomfort; or

• a bitter taste in your mouth.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Trusopt (dorzolamide) may include:

• swelling or redness of your eyelids;

• sensitivity to light; or

signs of eye infection; swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage.

If you have any of the above side effects or signs of complications, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Can children use this medication?

You may use these eye drops in children who are at least 2 years old. Children younger than 2 should not use this medication.

How many drops are usually used?

Commonly, one drop in each eye (or the affected eye) is used each dose. Usually there are 3 doses in a day for a total of 3-6 drops per day.

What conditions cause high pressure in the eye?

Conditions that can cause high pressure in the eye includes excessive aqueous production (extra fluid production), inadequate aqueous drainage (cannot drain fluid properly; which is the case of open-angle glaucoma), medications (and their side effects), eye trauma (which may affect aqueous production and/or drainage), and other medical eye conditions including pseudoexfoliation syndrome, pigment dispersion syndrome and corneal arcus.

What else should I know about this product?

You should not use other eye medications unless your doctor has told you that it is okay.