Dorzex Eye Drops 5ml

Each mL contains Dorzolamide Hydrochloride equivalent to 20 mg Dorzolamide (2% w/v), with Benzalkonium Chloride 0.0075% as a preservative, and inactive ingredients such as hydroxyethyl cellulose, mannitol, sodium citrate dihydrate, sodium hydroxide (for pH adjustment), and water for injection.

Pharmacological Class: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (ophthalmic anti-glaucoma agent).

Indications: Dorzex Eye Drops are used to treat elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It helps prevent optic nerve damage and vision loss by reducing eye pressure. It may be used alone or in combination with other topical ophthalmic drugs, such as beta-blockers (e.g., timolol).

Mechanism of Action: Dorzolamide is a topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that reduces IOP by decreasing the production of aqueous humour in the eye. It inhibits the enzyme carbonic anhydrase II in the ciliary processes, reducing bicarbonate ion formation, which in turn decreases sodium and fluid transport, lowering eye pressure.

Dosage and Administration:

• Adults: Instill one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily.
• Pediatric Use: Limited data support use in children, typically one drop three times daily (consult a physician).
• Administration:
  • Wash hands before use.
  • Tilt head back, pull down lower eyelid to form a pocket, and instill one drop without touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface to avoid contamination.
  • Close eyes for 1–2 minutes and apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye (nasolacrimal occlusion) for 1 minute to minimize systemic absorption.
  • If using multiple eye medications, wait at least 5–10 minutes between applications.
  • Remove soft contact lenses before instilling and wait 15 minutes before reinserting.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Dorzolamide or any excipients.
• Severe renal impairment (not recommended due to systemic absorption).
• History of severe respiratory diseases (e.g., bronchial asthma, COPD) or heart conditions, including heart failure (consult a physician).

Precautions:

• Sulfa Allergy: Dorzolamide is a sulfonamide; patients with sulfa allergies may experience hypersensitivity reactions.
• Corneal Issues: Use cautiously in patients with low endothelial cell counts or corneal problems, as it may cause corneal edema.
• Eye Infections/Injury: Discontinue and consult a doctor if signs of infection (e.g., pink/itchy eyes, discharge), injury, or surgery occur.
• Systemic Absorption: Though topical, Dorzolamide is absorbed systemically and may cause sulfonamide-related adverse reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, blood dyscrasias).
• Contact Lenses: Contains Benzalkonium Chloride, which may discolor soft lenses or cause irritation.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use only if benefits outweigh risks; not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential excretion in breast milk.
• Liver/Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.

Side Effects:

• Common: Burning, stinging, or discomfort in the eye; bitter taste; blurred vision; eye redness; superficial punctate keratitis; conjunctivitis; eyelid irritation; headache.
• Serious (Rare): Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, swelling, itching); bacterial keratitis (due to contamination); corneal edema; severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome); vision changes; eye infection symptoms (e.g., discharge, swollen eyelids).
• Note: Report persistent or worsening side effects to a healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions:

• Other Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide): Potential additive systemic effects; concomitant use not recommended.
• Sulphonamides (e.g., sulfamethoxazole): Increased risk of hypersensitivity reactions.
• Other Topical Eye Medications: Administer at least 5–10 minutes apart to avoid dilution or interaction.

Storage:

• Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), protected from light.
• Do not refrigerate after opening; store in a cool place below 25°C.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from sunlight.
• Use until the expiration date; discard if solution changes color, becomes cloudy, or contains particles.