ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
Some medicine is absorbed into the body and can slow the heart or affect breathing.
What it's used for
- Open-angle glaucoma
- High eye pressure
How to take it
- Wash your hands. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid, and put in one drop without touching the tip to your eye.
- Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye drops. Remove contact lenses unless the label says otherwise.
- After the drop, close your eye and press gently on the inner corner for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce absorption.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Stinging or burning
- Blurry vision
- Dry eyes
Call 911Wheezing or trouble breathing
Call 911Fainting or a very slow heartbeat
Warnings
- Usually not for people with asthma, COPD, or a slow heartbeat.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Beta blocker pills add to its effects on heart rate.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Timolol eye drops (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.