Timolol Eye Drops

What are timolol eye drops?

Timolol eye drops contain timolol, a medication from the beta-blocker class. It is used to reduce pressure inside the eye. It comes in two strengths: 0.25% and 0.5% solutions. It’s only available on prescription and is known by brand names like Eysano, Timoptol, Timoptol LA, and Tiopex[1]. 

You can also find advice here on timolol tablets. 

What are timolol eye drops used to treat?

Timolol is primarily used to treat the following conditions[1]: 

• Glaucoma (especially open-angle glaucoma) 

• Ocular hypertension (high pressure in the eye without vision loss) 

These conditions can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss if untreated. 

How do timolol eye drops work?

Timolol works by reducing the production of aqueous humour, the fluid inside the eye. This helps to lower intraocular pressure, preventing damage to the optic nerve[1]. 

Who can take timolol eye drops?

Timolol is suitable for most adults, but not for everyone. You should speak to your doctor first if you[1]: 

• Have or had asthma or severe lung disease 

• Have heart problems (e.g., slow heart rate, heart failure) 

• Wear contact lenses  

• Are due to have or have had eye surgery 

• Have eye problems including pain, irritation, inflammation, blurred vision, or dry eyes 

• Are allergic to timolol  

• Have low blood pressure 

• Have Poor circulation (e.g., Raynaud’s syndrome) 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of timolol eye drops?

Timolol eye drops come in 2 different strengths: a 0.5% solution and 0.25% solution. Your doctor will recommend which strength of eye drop you will need. Typical dosage includes[1]: 

• 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once or twice daily 

• Strength may be 0.25% or 0.5%, as prescribed 

• Try to use it at the same time each day (e.g., morning and evening if twice daily) 

How do you take timolol eye drops?

Follow these steps carefully to use the eye drops correctly[1]: 

• Wash your hands 

• Remove contact lenses (wait 15 minutes before reinserting) 

• Tilt your head back and pull down the lower eyelid 

• Drop 1 drop into the eye without touching the dropper to your eye 

• Close your eye and press the inner corner for 2 minutes 

• If using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between them 

Can you stop taking timolol eye drops?

Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Stopping can cause eye pressure to rise again, risking vision loss[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much timolol eye drops?

Taking too much timolol can lead to systemic side effects such as[1]: 

• Slow heart rate 

• Breathing difficulties 

• Dizziness 

Contact 111 for advice if you’ve used too many drops in your eye, or if you or a child have swallowed any timolol eye drops[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take timolol eye drops?

If you forget a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose[1]. 

How do you store timolol eye drops?

Storage guidelines for timolol eye drops include[1]: 

• Store in a cool, dry place away from light 

• Use within 4 weeks of opening the bottle 

• For single-dose droppers: use immediately after opening and discard 

What medicines can’t you take with timolol eye drops?

Some medicines may interact with timolol. Speak to your doctor first if you use[1]: 

• Betaxolol or levobunolol eye drops 

• Blood pressure-lowering medicine (e.g., baclofen, some antidepressants, nitrates for chest pain, tamsulosin, co-careldopa, or levodopa) 

• Heart medications (e.g., digoxin, verapamil, amiodarone) 

• Diabetes medications (e.g., insulin) 

• Asthma medications 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of timolol eye drops?

Common side effects may include[1]: 

• Eye pain, irritation, or discomfort 

• Blurred vision or swollen eyelids 

• Eye infection like conjunctivitis 

Serious (but rare) side effects include[1]: 

• Breathing difficulties 

• Irregular heartbeat 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about timolol eye drops

How long do I need to use them for? 
Often lifelong, unless advised otherwise[1]. 

Can I use them with contact lenses? 
Yes but remove lenses before use and wait 15 minutes before reinserting[1]. 

Can children use timolol eye drops? 
Only under specialist supervision[1]. 

Can I use other eye drops with it? 
Yes, but space them out by 5 minutes[1]. 

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 
Consult your doctor, it may not be recommended[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to timolol eye drops, visit their website.