General Drug Information and Indications

Beta-adrenergic blocker ophthalmic drops for reduction of intraocular pressure in glaucoma. Non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker (timolol maleate 0.25–0.5% ophthalmic). Mechanism: blocks beta-1 and beta-2 receptors in ciliary body epithelium → reduced cAMP → decreased aqueous humor production (primarily beta-2 mediated) → reduced IOP. Also increases aqueous humor outflow. No local anesthetic effect. Systemic absorption can cause bradycardia. Key information Non-selective beta-blocker ophthalmic. Systemic absorption from ocular route possible — cardiac effects. Do not use in animals with asthma or heart block. Store at room temperature.

How to Give this Medication

Ophthalmic solution: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. Instill 1 drop into affected eye(s) q12h. Use punctal occlusion after instillation to reduce systemic absorption. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.

Side Effects

Ophthalmic: systemic absorption → bradycardia, bronchoconstriction (asthma/RAO risk), hypotension, CNS effects. Local: transient stinging, reduced tear production. AV block. Use punctal occlusion to minimize systemic absorption.

Precautions

For animals Ophthalmic — systemic absorption via nasolacrimal duct. Use with caution in patients with AV block, CHF, or bronchospasm. Punctal occlusion after instillation reduces systemic absorption. Monitor heart rate. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Ophthalmic beta-blocker — systemic absorption can cause bradycardia and bronchospasm, especially in people with heart disease or asthma. Use punctal occlusion after applying to animal. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Topical timolol can be systemically absorbed. Overdose causes bradycardia and bronchospasm. Contact your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency clinic immediately if you believe your animal has received an overdose. Bring the medication label and note the approximate amount given.

Timolol dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
TIMOLOL 0.5% OPH SOLN—Solution1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)