Istalol

The active ingredient in Istalol is timolol maleate. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-adrenergic blockers, beta blockers, or beta-adrenergic blocking agents. When taken orally, these medications work by acting on beta receptors in the body to decrease blood pressure and heart rate when they block other chemical messengers from binding. However, it is unclear whether this is the same mechanism of action that explains why Istalol ophthalmic solution helps to lower pressure in the eye.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Istalol. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Istalol:

• Istalol should be used exactly as prescribed.
• Typically, one drop is used once daily in the affected eye(s) in the morning. If you are using other eye products at the same time as Istalol, wait 5 minutes in between.
• Istalol contains a preservative called benzalkonium chloride (BAK). If contact lenses are left in during the application, BAK can damage them. Remove contacts when applying and reinsert them once 15 minutes have passed since application.
• To keep the dropper sterile and to prevent infection of the eye, do not touch the dropper to the eye while applying or with your hands.
• If you miss a dose, use Istalol as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next use, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Istalol seen in clinical trials include:

• A burning or stinging sensation upon instillation
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• High blood pressure
• Itching

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Istalol. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Any serious vision changes or eye pain.
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue. During an anaphylactic reaction, usual doses of epinephrine may not be enough to reverse in some patients if the reaction is due to timolol.
• Increased risk of heart failure. Symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, fatigue, irregular breathing, an irregular heartbeat, swelling, and unusual weight gain.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Istalol. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Istalol, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Obstructive pulmonary disease or other breathing problems
• Heart problems
• History of allergy or anaphylaxis
• Myasthenia gravis or any other muscle weakness problem
• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Eye or corneal problems
• Upcoming surgery
• Angle closure glaucoma
• Cerebrovascular insufficiency
• Choroidal detachment
• Wear contact lenses
• Overt cardiac or heart failure
• Cardiogenic shock

Do not use Istalol if you have:

• Asthma
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Sinus bradycardia
• Second or third-degree atrioventricular block
• An allergy to timolol or any of the other ingredients in Istalol
• Heart failure

Istalol begins to work soon after the first dose. However, it may take a couple of weeks of regular use to see the full effects of Istalol.

When Istalol is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Beta blockers
• Calcium blockers
• Reserpine
• Quinidine
• Clonidine

Istalol is available as a 0.5% timolol maleate ophthalmic solution. It is also available under another brand name called Timoptic.

Istalol should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Istalol is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Bausch & Lomb.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Istalol.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Istalol.

It is unknown whether Istalol is safe in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Istalol can pass into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.