Timolol Maleate: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Timolol Maleate
Rx
Generic NameTimolol Maleate
Therapeutic ClassNon-selective Beta-Adrenergic Blocker
Common DoseOphthalmic: 0.25–0.5% 1 drop twice daily; Oral: 10–30 mg daily in divided doses
PregnancyUse only if clearly needed
Indications ▼
Open-angle glaucoma
Ocular hypertension
Prevention of migraine (oral formulation)
Adjunct therapy to reduce intraocular pressure
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Non-selective beta-blocker that decreases aqueous humor production in the eye, lowering intraocular pressure. Orally, it reduces cardiac output and inhibits sympathetic stimulation.
Pharmacokinetics: Ophthalmic: minimal systemic absorption; Oral: absorbed from GI tract, hepatic metabolism via CYP2D6, excreted renally. Half-life ~4–5 hours.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Indication | Form | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glaucoma / Ocular hypertension | Eye drops 0.25–0.5% | 1 drop | Twice daily |
| Migraine prophylaxis | Oral tablet | 10–30 mg | Once or twice daily |
Note: Ensure proper ophthalmic technique; avoid systemic absorption if possible. Adjust oral dose in renal or hepatic impairment.
Side Effects ▼
Eye irritation, burning, stinging (ophthalmic)
Bradycardia, hypotension
Fatigue, dizziness
Bronchospasm (caution in asthma/COPD)
Rare: heart block, worsening heart failure
Contraindications ▼
Asthma or severe COPD
Sinus bradycardia, AV block >1st degree
Cardiogenic shock
Hypersensitivity to timolol
Drug Interaction ▼
Other beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers: additive bradycardia/hypotension
Insulin or oral antidiabetics: may mask hypoglycemia symptoms
Antiarrhythmics (class I or III): increased risk of AV block
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Use only if clearly needed; may cause fetal bradycardia or hypoglycemia
Breastfeeding not recommended; may be excreted in milk
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Clinical Role: First-line non-selective beta-blocker for lowering intraocular pressure in glaucoma.
Advantage: Effective for ocular pressure reduction with minimal systemic effects at ophthalmic doses.
Monitoring: Eye exams, heart rate, blood pressure; watch for bronchospasm in susceptible patients.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Instill eye drops properly; avoid touching dropper to eye
Report dizziness, shortness of breath, or slow heart rate
Do not discontinue oral beta-blockers abruptly
Regular follow-up with ophthalmologist or physician
Storage & Handling ▼
Store below 25°C, protect from light
Keep container tightly closed
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Timopress® 0.5%