Xalacom Eye Drops are an ophthalmic medication consisting of two drugs; latanoprost (prostaglandin analogues) and timolol (beta-blockers). We carry the brand choice of this medication in 50mg and 100mg!

Xalacom Eye Drops are prescribed to reduce pressure inside the eye. This is needed in conditions such as open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Both conditions are associated with high pressure in the eye, which if left untreated for too long can lead to eye damage and even permanent vision loss.

Xalacom Eye Drops (latanoprost/timolol) is effective at treating high pressure in the eye due to the ability to increase the natural outflow of fluids from the eye to the blood stream, which is done by latanoprost. Timolol helps by slowing the formation of fluid in the eye.

Your doctor will tell you before prescribing you Xalacom Eye Drops (latanoprost/timolol) exactly how to take this medication. Follow his or her directions, they can usually be found on the prescription label if you forget.

Use one drop in the affected eye(s); do not use more than once per day. If you wear eye contacts, ensure you take the out before applying the medication. After applying the medication, wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back.

How to apply eye drops

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 Xalacom Eye Drops (latanoprost/timolol)

These eye drops should not be used by anyone who is allergic to latanoprost, timolol, other beta blockers, if you are have ever had respiratory system problems (e.g. asthma, severe chronic obstructive bronchitis, lung disease), heart problems, heart rhythm disorders, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

Tell your doctor, before starting treatment, if you have ever had coronary heart disease, heart failure, low blood pressure, disturbances of heart rate such as slow heart beat, breathing problems, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, poor blood circulation, diabetes, overactive thyroid, eye problems, angina, or if you have a viral infection of the eye.

Risks

When you use this medication you may find your vision to be blurry for a short time after administering the eye drops. Do not drive or do other hazardous activities until you understand how this medication affects you.

Do not wear contact lenses while administering this medication.

Common side effects of Xalacom Eye Drops (latanoprost/timolol) may include:

• Eye irritation,

• Blurred vision, or

• Eye pain.

Less common side effects

• Headache,

• Redness of the eye, or

• Eye infection.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Xalacom Eye Drops (latanoprost/timolol) may include:

• Insomnia,

• Depression,

• Memory loss, or

• Worsening of other current conditions such as asthma or angina.

If you have any of the above side effects, 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.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

allergic reaction: sneezing and an itchy, runny or blocked nose (allergic rhinitis), itchy, red, or watering eyes (conjunctivitis), wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, cough, a raised itchy, red rash (hives) or swollen lips, tongue, eyes or face.

How should I store this medication?

Store this unopened medication in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Once opened, it may be store anywhere below 25 degrees Celsius and does not have to be stored in the fridge. Use this medication within 4 weeks of opening the bottle. Protect from heat and light.

Is this product safe for children use?

No. This medication should not be used by anyone under the age of 18 years old.

What are some other side effects I should be aware of?

Other side effects that may occur include muscle weakness/tiredness, sexual dysfunction, hair loss, skin rash, taste disturbance, nausea, indigestion, dry mouth, abdominal pain, vomiting, contricted airways,, low blood pressure, and others. Side effects do not always occur but if they do and they begin to worry you; consult your doctor.

Does this medication have any drug interactions?

Yes. Some drug interactions include angiotensin receptor blockers, anti-psychotics, beta-adrenergic blockers in eye-drop or tablet form, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, diabetes medications, diuretics, ergot alkaloids, HIV protease inhibitors, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, opiate medications, and nitrates.