0

Home > Drug Category > Glaucoma Medications > Azarga and Equivalent

Azarga Information

Azarga (Brinzolamide/Timolol) is used to treat high pressure in the eyes, which is called glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Glaucoma is when fluid builds up in the front of the eye, leading to increased pressure inside the eye. Ocular hypertension is when the pressure inside the eye is higher than normal. Azarga is used in adults above 18 years old when only one medicine cannot control eye pressure. Azarga is a combination of two medicines - Brinzolamide and Timolol. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors like Brinzolamide work by slowing fluid production in the aqueous humor. Beta-blockers like Timolol work by decreasing pressure in the eye.

Azarga Side Effects

The most common side effects of Azarga may include blurred vision, eyelid changes, eye discomfort, increased tear production, and feeling of something in the eye. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Dizziness;
• Eye pain;
• Itching or swelling of the eye;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat

Azarga Precautions

Do not use Azarga if you are allergic to Brinzolamide, Timolol, or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have a history of atopy, coronary heart disease, diabetes, dry eyes, hyperchloraemic acidosis, hyperthyroidism, liver problems, myasthenia gravis, Raynaud’s syndrome, respiratory problems, severe hay fever, severe kidney problems, slow heartbeat, think you may be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Azarga and other medications, such as guanetidine, quinidine, amiodarone, acetazolamide, epinephrine, digoxin, fentanyl, etc. Do not use Azarga if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant without informing your doctor. It is not known whether Brinzolamide or Timolol will harm an unborn baby. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this drug in pregnancy with your doctor. Do not use Azarga while breastfeeding without talking to your doctor. Timolol passes into breast milk or may harm a nursing infant. Do not give this drug to children under 18 years without talking to your doctor.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Azarga comes as an eye drop. Wash your hands before using the eye drops. Remove the cap and place it in a clean location. To avoid contamination, keep the tip of the container from contact with any surface. Tilt your head back and look towards the ceiling. With your index finger, gently pull the lower eyelid down and away from the eye to form a pouch. Apply one drop into the pouch by gently pressing on the base of the bottle (do not squeeze the bottle). Do not allow the tip of the container to touch the eye or areas around the eye. Gently apply pressure to the inner corner of the eye (at the bridge of the nose) for about 2 minutes. This prevents the medication from dripping down through the tear duct and entering the bloodstream, which could cause you to experience some side effects. Repeat with the other eye if prescribed by your doctor. Rewash your hands to remove any medication. Do not touch the dropper tip to your eyelids or surrounding areas to prevent contamination. Keep the bottle closed when not in use. Use this eye drop at least 5 minutes before or after other eye drops. Azarga may cause blurry vision and dizziness. Do not drive or use machines until your vision is clear. If you use contact lenses, remove them before applying Azarga. Wait at least 15 minutes before putting back the contact lenses. Azarga may change the colour of contact lenses. Do not stop using Azarga without talking to your doctor. If you stop using this medicine suddenly, the pressure in your eye will not be controlled and can lead to loss of sight. Store Azarga at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Azarga?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Azarga.