Dorzolamide is an eye drop that lowers pressure inside the eye. Doctors prescribe it for glaucoma and ocular hypertension to protect the optic nerve and help prevent vision loss. You may see dorzolamide alone or combined with timolol in one bottle (brand name Cosopt). The medicine works by reducing fluid production inside the eye so pressure goes down.
Most people use dorzolamide 2% as one drop in the affected eye three times a day. If you use the combination drop with timolol, the usual dose is one drop twice a day. Follow your doctor’s instructions—never change dose or stop suddenly without checking with them.
Before putting drops in, wash your hands. Tilt your head back, pull the lower lid down, and place one drop into the pocket that forms. Close your eye gently for about one minute and press lightly on the inner corner of the eyelid to reduce drainage into the throat. Wait at least five minutes before using any other eye drops. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before putting in the drops and wait 15 minutes to reinsert them.
Keep regular eye pressure checks. You might not feel when pressure is high, so follow the monitoring schedule your eye doctor sets.
Most side effects are mild and local: stinging, burning, a bitter taste, blurred vision, or redness. These often fade after a few minutes. If you get persistent eye pain, sudden vision changes, swelling, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as rash or trouble breathing, call your doctor or seek emergency care.
Dorzolamide is a sulfonamide derivative, so tell your doctor if you have a sulfa allergy. Although systemic absorption is small, people with severe kidney disease or certain electrolyte problems should discuss risks with their doctor. Avoid using other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors at the same time unless your doctor approves.
Be cautious when driving or using machines until you know how the drops affect your vision. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before starting dorzolamide.
Store the bottle at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Many multiuse eye drops should be discarded about 28 days after opening; check the product label and follow your pharmacist's advice.
Quick tips: don't touch the dropper tip to your eye, follow the exact schedule, and keep follow-up appointments for pressure checks. Got questions about interactions or side effects? Call your eye doctor or pharmacist for clear, personal advice tailored to you.
