Cosopt is the brand name of a combination eye drop used to treat glaucoma and other eye diseases that cause elevated eye pressure and hinder proper drainage. Cosopt is made by Merck & Co. and is a mixture of the drugs dorzolamide hydrochloride and timolol maleate. Both of these medications decrease the amount of fluid that is produced in the eye. Cosopt is an eye drop, but is absorbed into the body and can produce side effects in some people.
Eye Pain
Merck reports that stinging and burning of the eye upon application of Cosopt eye drops are among the most common side effects of the medication. In addition to the temporary pain, the user's eye might become red and tear.
Altered Vision
The Glaucoma Research Foundation explains that some people who use Cosopt eye drops as a treatment for abnormally high intraocular eye pressure may temporarily experience altered vision. Blurred vision is common. People who see flashes of light or halos when using the eye drops should seek immediate medical attention. These types of vision disturbances can indicate serious damage to the optic nerve and could lead to permanent loss of sight.
Altered Taste
Some people who use Cosopt eye drops will find that they have a bitter or sour taste in their mouths. This change in taste is not permanent, and usually occurs right after the drops have been applied to the eyes. An altered sense of taste while eating may be possible as well, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.
Heart Rate Changes
One of the medications in Cosopt, timolol, is a beta blocker, and can cause heart rate changes and low blood pressure in some people. An irregular heartbeat or slowed heart rate are side effects that are associated with Cosopt eye drops. If these symptoms accompany shortness of breath, it could indicate potentially serious complications, and should be reported to a doctor immediately.
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