Iotim: price, uses & cheaper substitutes

Timolet contains timolol 0.5%, a beta-blocker eye drop that lowers the pressure inside the eye. It is prescribed for glaucoma and ocular hypertension to protect the optic nerve from damage. It does not improve vision; it prevents further loss.

Usually one drop in the affected eye twice a day, morning and evening. Long-acting gel-forming versions such as Glucotim LA or Timolet OD are used once a day. Follow the schedule on your prescription exactly, because missed drops let the eye pressure rise again.

Timolol is generally avoided in asthma and COPD. Enough drug can get into the blood from the eye to narrow the airways and cause wheezing or breathlessness. Tell your eye doctor about any breathing problem; a different class of glaucoma drop can be chosen.

A few seconds of burning or stinging is common and settles quickly. If stinging is severe, the eye stays red and painful, or your vision stays blurred, stop and see your eye doctor, as this can mean irritation or allergy to the drop or its preservative.