Timolol Ophthalmic Solution (Generic)

What is Timolol?
Timolol is an eye drop that treats glaucoma.

Who is it for?
Timolol is for dogs and cats.

What are the benefits?

Timolol ophthalmic solution is used in the eyes of dogs and cats to prevent glaucoma in one eye when it is present in the other.

How does Timolol work?
This medicine reduces the amount of aqueous humour (fluid) that is produced in the eye, which decreases the pressure in the eyeball.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This medication is a generic.

How is it given?
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. If discharge is present, the area should be cleansed with a sterile eyewash solution prior to applying the ointment or solution.

Never touch the tip of the tube or dropper to the pet's eye, lids, or eyelashes. Do not touch the inside of the cap, the dropper, or tube tip with your fingers, as this will also contaminate the medication. Always wash your hands before and after applying this medication.

If you are applying more than one medication to the eye, allow 5 minutes between applications so one medication is not washed out by the next. Be sure not to interchange the caps of the medications.

What results can I expect?
Timolol is generally not strong enough to treat glaucoma that is already present, but is useful in preventing glaucoma in the "good" eye when glaucoma is present in the other eye. Timolol may be used along with other medications to prevent glaucoma.

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in a solution to be applied to the eye.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Timoptic, Ocumeter, Istalol

Pronunciation
TIM-oh-lole

Common Drug Name
Timolol

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Timolol?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while using Timolol on your pet's eyes. Also discuss how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has asthma, lung disease or heart failure.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Timolol needs to be given exactly as your veterinarian prescribes. If it is discontinued, glaucoma may occur.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to Timolol. Use with caution in cats with asthma. Timolol could trigger an asthma attack. Use with caution in animals with congestive heart failure, respiratory disease, pregnant or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young).

What side effects may be seen when taking Timolol?
Timolol may cause the pupil (the black part of the eye) to become smaller. May cause redness, itching, swelling, or other signs of eye irritation in animals allergic to Timolol. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of these effects.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Toxicity is rarely observed. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any unusual signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Timolol?
Consult your veterinarian before using Timolol with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.