Combigan is a prescription eye drop used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It combines two medications, brimonidine tartrate and timolol maleate, which work together to reduce fluid production and increase drainage in the eye.
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Combigan contains brimonidine tartrate, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, and timolol maleate, a non-selective beta-blocker.
The typical dosage is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.
Common side effects include eye redness, burning sensation, dry mouth, and fatigue.
Combigan is contraindicated in patients with asthma or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to the presence of timolol.
It can interact with other medications like oral beta-blockers and antihypertensives, so a complete medication history should be reviewed before prescribing.
Review Questions
What are the two active ingredients in Combigan and their respective classes?
Why is Combigan contraindicated in patients with asthma?
What is the recommended dosage frequency for Combigan?
Related terms
Brimonidine Tartrate: An alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used to decrease intraocular pressure.
Timolol Maleate: A non-selective beta-blocker that reduces aqueous humor production.
Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The fluid pressure inside the eye important for diagnosing glaucoma.