Xalacom eye drops are a combination medication used to reduce high intraocular pressure, especially in cases of glaucoma. These drops contain two active ingredients that work together to achieve a powerful pressure-lowering effect: latanoprost and timolol. This combination of two different pressure-lowering mechanisms makes the medication highly effective in controlling intraocular pressure within the normal range, thereby protecting the optic nerve and preventing the progression of glaucoma-related vision loss.
What are the ingredients in Xalacom?
Xalacom eye drops contain the following active ingredients:
Latanoprost.
Timolol.
In addition to these active ingredients, the drops contain inactive ingredients to maintain sterility and stability.
What are Xalacom used for?
Xalacom eye drops are primarily used to treat:
Open-angle glaucoma: to reduce intraocular pressure within the normal range when treatment with a single eye drop is insufficient.
Ocular hypertension: to reduce the risk of developing glaucoma. The treatment aims to lower intraocular pressure to prevent or slow optic nerve damage and preserve the field of vision.
What are the dosages of Xalacom?
Xalacom eye drops should be used as directed by your doctor. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the patient's response and the level of intraocular pressure.
The usual adult dosage is one drop in the affected eye once daily, preferably in the evening.
Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the drops.
After applying the drops, gently close your eye and apply pressure to the inner corner of the eye (tear duct) for one to two minutes to prevent systemic absorption of the medication and minimize side effects.
If the patient is using other eye drops, separate each application by at least five minutes.
The dropper tip should not touch any surface, including the eye, to avoid contamination.
What are the side effects of Xalacom?
Xalacom eye drops may cause some side effects, most of which are local, but some may be systemic or more serious:
Common side effects (local):
Brown discoloration of the iris (the colored part of the eye), especially in patients with mixed-colored eyes, and this change may be permanent.
Increased growth, density, and pigmentation of eyelashes.
Eye redness, itching, stinging, or burning when applying the drops.
Temporary blurred vision.
A doctor should be notified immediately if any severe, persistent, or unusual side effects occur, especially any changes in heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or permanent changes in eye color.