Drug Description:
Combigan (brimonidine-timolol) is an ophthalmic solution indicated to reduce elevated intraocular pressure among patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It also prevents blindness through the reduction of the pressure inside the eye.
This medication is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist with a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor inhibitor. It is a combination of brimonidine tartrate and timolol maleate. Both of these components have a rapid onset of action that has ocular hypotensive effects. Studies suggest that its mechanism of action is reducing aqueous humor production and increasing uveoscleral outflow.
Directions
Before starting to use Combigan, read the medication or prescription guide thoroughly. Follow the exact dosage and frequency recommended by your doctor. This ophthalmic solution is available in 2mg/ml brimonidine tartrate and 5mg/ml timolol.
Use this medication regularly and at the same times of the day, every day. Usually, it is recommended to use this medication one drop, twice a day, and twelve hours apart.
Here’s the guide on how to use Combigan Eye Drops:
- Wash your hands and dry them thoroughly to avoid contamination.
- Lean your head back, gently pull your lower eyelid down, and lookup.
- Place the dropper directly above your eye and make sure that the tip of the dropper will not touch your eye. Place one drop on the affected eye.
- Look down and slowly close your eyes. Keep it close for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Gently press the inner corner of your eye to prevent the medication from draining. Do not blink or rub your eye.
Note: If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before administering the drug to prevent it from absorbing the preservatives in the solution.
If you are using other eye medications, wait for 10 minutes before applying another medication. Apply eye drops before eye ointments to allow eye drops to enter the eye.
Side effects
Some of the common Combigan side effects include:
-temporary blurred vision
-temporary burning or itching of the eyes
-watery eyes
-dry eyes
-puffy eyes
-feeling as if there’s something in the eye
-headache
-dizziness
-drowsiness
It is common for these side effects to resolve on their own. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, you have to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Other adverse reactions to look out for are vision changes, eye sensitivity to light, eye pain, discharges in the eye, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, mood changes, numbness of the extremities, swelling of the feet, and shortness of breath.
Precautions
Do not use Combigan ophthalmic solution if you have a known allergy to brimonidine, timolol, or any inactive ingredients this ophthalmic solution may have. Signs of infection include hives, skin rash, swelling of the face, and breathing difficulty. Seek emergency help as early as possible if you experience any of these symptoms.
Talk to your physician about your current medical condition or if you have a history of lung disease, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, irregular heartbeat, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or depression. Some conditions may affect how you respond to this drug.
As this drug may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurring of vision, avoid doing activities requiring alertness, such as driving and using machinery. Also, limit consumption of alcohol. Doing these would help you avoid injuries and accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store Combigan?
Combigan should be protected from light and must be stored below 25 degrees Celsius. It should not be refrigerated.
After using Combigan, how long should I wait before I could wear my contact lenses again?
After using Combigan, wait for at least 15 minutes before putting your contact lenses back on.
If I miss a Combigan dose, what should I do?
If you miss a dose of Combigan, apply it as soon as you can. However, if it is only a few hours away from your next dose, disregard the missed dose and proceed with your next scheduled dose.
Is Combigan safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women?
Its effects on pregnant women and unborn children are still unknown. However, as for breastfeeding, this medication could pass into the breastmilk but is unlikely to cause harm to a breastfed child.
How much does Combigan cost?
Combigan prices are shown at the top portion of this website.
