Side Effects of Azopt Eye Drops

Azopt is a prescription eye medication that is commonly used to treat elevated eye pressure in patients who have ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. It is classified as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that works by decreasing the eye's fluid production, which in turn lowers pressure in the eye. Patients are typically prescribed Azopt to be taken three times a day. Once the drops are applied, you should close your eye for a minute or two and use a finger to apply pressure to the corner of the eye by the nose. During this time, do not blink or rub your eye. If you use other eye drops, you should use Azopt at least 10 minutes before using the other medication. Additionally, you should use Azopt before applying eye ointments.

Vision Side Effects

• Some people using Azopt eye drops may experience blurred or double vision as a side effect of the medication. These side effects are no cause for concern and will typically resolve within a few minutes of administering the drops.

Eye Side Effects

• Increased tearing, eye dryness or discomfort, discharge from the eye, eyelid inflammation, swelling of the cornea and the sensation as though there is a foreign object in the eye are all side effects of Azopt, but none of these side effects is cause for concern. However, stop using Azopt and contact your doctor immediately if you experience eye itchiness, eye pain or have irritated eyelids.

Other Side Effects

• Some Azopt patients may experience a sour, bitter or unusual taste in their mouth, a runny nose or headaches as a side effect of the medication. None of these is cause for concern, but you should contact your doctor if it becomes bothersome.

Warnings

• Azopt many not be safe for all people, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Women in these situations should disclose the condition to their doctor and discuss all their treatment options to make the best choice for them and their baby. People with liver and kidney disease should also check with their doctor before using Azopt. Also, people who wear contact lenses should be careful when using Azopt. Contacts need to be removed before the drops are administered and should be left out for at least 15 minutes after using Azopt.

Drug Interactions

• Because it is an optical solution, little of the medications in Azopt are absorbed into the bloodstream, making it unlikely users will experience any drug interactions. However, you should still make sure you discuss all drugs--prescription and over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements--you are using with your doctor and pharmacist before using Azopt.