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Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor (Topical)

Dorzolamide

Brand names: Trusopt, Cosopt (with timolol)

Dorzolamide is a topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor eye drop used to lower intraocular pressure in ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary processes, reducing aqueous humour production and thereby lowering intraocular pressure.

Prescribing in practice

  • As a sulfonamide derivative it can cause hypersensitivity reactions, and serious sulfonamide-type adverse effects may occur, so it should be avoided in patients with relevant sulfonamide allergy.
  • It should be used with caution in significant renal impairment and is not generally recommended in severe renal impairment.
  • Local effects such as a bitter taste and transient ocular stinging or burning are common.

Monitoring

Monitor intraocular pressure to confirm response and review for local intolerance or hypersensitivity reactions.

Counselling the patient

  • A bitter taste and brief stinging after instillation are common.
  • If you also use other eye drops, leave a gap between them as advised.
  • Report any persistent eye irritation, rash or signs of an allergic reaction.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are an established option for lowering intraocular pressure, supported by glaucoma guidance and the SPC.

Reference: Royal College of Ophthalmologists Glaucoma Guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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