Why is Combigan prescribed?

Combigan (Brimonidine/Timolol) is used to treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma (open-angle type) or other eye diseases. Lowering high pressure inside the eye helps to prevent blindness. Brimonidine and Timolol are used together when 1 drug is not controlling the pressure inside the eye. Brimonidine works by allowing better fluid drainage from within the eye and also by decreasing the amount of fluid formed in the eye. It belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. Timolol is thought to work by decreasing the amount of fluid formed in the eye. Timolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers. This medication is not recommended for use in children less than 2 years old due to an increased risk of serious side effects. Brimonidine/Timolol (Generic) is available in addition to the brand name Combigan in strengths of 0.2% and 0.5%.

What is the most effective way to take Combigan?

Use Combigan exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

• Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Combigan eye drops may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses.
• Wait at least 15 minutes after using this medicine before putting in your contact lenses
• Wash your hands before using the eye drops

To apply the Combigan eye drops:

1. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.

2. Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed. If you use more than one drop, wait about 5 minutes between drops.

3. Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.

• Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
• Do not use the Combigan eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
• Tell your doctor right away if you have any eye injury or infection, or if you need to have any type of surgery, especially eye surgery.

Before using Combigan, you should know:

• If you have diabetes this product may prevent the fast/pounding heartbeat you would usually feel when your blood sugar level falls too low. Other symptoms of low blood sugar such as dizziness and sweating, are unaffected by this drug.
• This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or temporarily blur your vision. Use of either alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• This medication passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Before using Combigan, tell your doctor:

• tell your doctor if you are allergic to Brimonidine or Timolol; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
• consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: lung disease, certain types of irregular heartbeats, or certain types of heart disease
• tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, blood vessel disease, blood circulation disorders (cerebral/coronary insufficiency), dizziness after standing, diabetes, depression, muscle weakness disorders, or severe allergies
• If you develop an eye infection or injury or have eye surgery, check with your doctor about whether you should continue to use your current bottle of this medication. You may be advised to start using a new bottle.
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.

Common side effects may include but are not limited to:

• drowsiness or tired feeling
• mild itching, redness, or irritation of your eyes
• mild stinging or burning when using the eye drops

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Combigan: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• slow or uneven heart rate
• pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest
• shallow breathing
• feeling like you might pass out
• severe swelling, redness, or discomfort in or around your eye
• eye pain or increased watering
• numbness or tingly feeling in your hands or feet

Q: Why is Combigan prescribed?

A: Combigan eye drops are used to treat open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension

Q: Is there a generic alternative to Combigan?

A: Yes, Brimonidine/Timolol (Generic) is available for purchase.

Q: How should I store this medication?

A: Store Combigan eye drops at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Q: Can Comibgan be used by anyone?

A: Combigan should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.