Side Effects of Azopt Eye Drops

Azopt is a medication made by Alcon Laboratories and is available as an eye drop, also called an ophthalmic suspension. The generic name of Azopt is brinzolamide. Azopt is classified as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and lowers eye pressure by decreasing the amount of fluid produced by the eye. The drug is used to treat glaucoma and other eye diseases that cause an increase of intraocular eye pressure. Users of Azopt may experience some temporary side effects during and after application.

Discomfort

Eye pain, stinging, burning and eye strain are side effects that may affect users of Aztop ophthalmic solution. A form of eyelid infection called blepharitis may also stem from Azopt use and can affect up to 5 percent of users, according to Alcon Labs. Eye discomfort usually dissipates a short time after the application of the eye drop.

Visual Disturbances

People who use Azopt eye drops may notice changes in their vision for a short period of time after application. Blurry vision is a common side effect of the medication but is not considered a serious health threat. Those who experience blurred vision should take care when driving or using heavy machinery. Double vision is a more rare side effect of Azopt and generally affects less than 1 percent of the population using the drug.

Flulike Symptoms

Serious side effects associated with Azopt should be reported to a doctor. Flulike side effects can be serious and may include fever, runny nose, dry mouth, sore throat, headache and stomach pain. Side effects of this kind may require adjustment to the dosage of Azopt, or the patient may need to transition to a new eye drop.

Allergic Reaction

An allergic reaction to Azopt is rare and, according to Alcon Lab's patient literature, affects less than 1 percent of the population using the eye drops. Signs of an allergic reaction to Azopt may include chest pain, hives, breathing difficulties and dizziness. People who experience these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

References

Last updated on: Oct 15, 2009

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