A study of the efficacy of two commercial preparations of timolol maleate with special reference to side effects

Abstract

The intraocular pressure lowering effect of 2 commercial preparations of timolol maleate was studied in 57 adult outpatients suffering from open angle glaucome or ocular hypertension. Special attention was paid to side effects of topical treatment with timolol, while comparing the efficacy of the 2 preparations. The intraocular pressure lowering effect with each strength (0.25% and 0.5%) of both preparations (Blocanol and Oftan-Timolol) was identical. No clearcut effect on lacrimal gland function, accommodation, or pupil size was seen. The adverse effects of timolol maleate during 6 months of treatment were of transient nature and generally mild. The only serious adverse effect was respiratory distress which occurred with 0.25% timolol in one patient. The respiratory distress developed slowly and the trial had to be discontinued for this patient after 2 months of treatment. There was a tendency toward a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate with both commercial preparations.