Istalol Eye Drops
Generic name:timolol ophthalmic [ TIM-oh-lol-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class:Ophthalmic glaucoma agents
What is Istalol?
Istalol is a beta-blocker that also reduces pressure inside the eye.
Istalol ophthalmic solution is used to treat open-angle glaucoma and other causes of high pressure inside the eye.
Istalol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use Istalol if you have asthma or severe COPD, or a serious heart condition (such as "sick sinus syndrome," 2nd or 3rd degree "AV block," severe heart failure, or very slow heartbeats).
Side effects may occur if timolol is absorbed into your bloodstream. Call your doctor right away if you have: chest pain, trouble breathing, slow heartbeats, muscle weakness, numbness or coldness in your hands or feet, unusual mood or behavior changes, or severe dizziness.
Do not allow the Istalol dropper to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
Istalol can cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Istalol if you are allergic to timolol, or if you have:
asthma or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
certain serious heart conditions, especially "sick sinus syndrome" or 2nd or 3rd degree "AV block";
severe heart failure; or
slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint.
To make sure Istalol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart disease, a stroke, a blood clot, or circulation problems;
breathing problems;
diabetes;
a thyroid disorder;
narrow-angle glaucoma;
allergies; or
a muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis.
It is not known whether Istalol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Timolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breastfeed while using this medicine.
Istalol is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.
How should I use Istalol?
Use Istalol exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not use this medicine while wearing contact lenses. Istalol may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using this medicine before putting in your contact lenses.
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