Timolol (Blocadren®) is a beta-blocker medicine that treats high blood pressure. People also take it after a heart attack or to prevent migraines. A liquid (topical) form of this medicine treats glaucoma and high blood pressure in your eyes. Timolol tablets lower your blood pressure, making it easier for your heart to pump blood.
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TIMOLOL (TIM oh lol) treats high blood pressure. It may also be used to prevent further damage after a heart attack. It works by lowering your blood pressure and heart rate, making it easier for your heart to pump blood to the rest of your body. It can also be used to prevent migraine headaches. It works by relaxing the blood vessels in the brain that cause migraines. It belongs to a group of medications called beta blockers.
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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Blocadren
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
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This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Know what your blood pressure should be and when to contact your care team.
This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Sit up or stand slowly to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Drinking alcohol with this medication can increase the risk of these side effects.
Do not suddenly stop taking this medication. This may increase your risk of side effects, such as chest pain and heart attack. If you no longer need to take this medication, your care team will lower the dose slowly over time to decrease the risk of side effects.
If you are going to need surgery or a procedure, tell your care team that you are using this medication.
This medication may affect blood glucose levels. It can also mask the symptoms of low blood sugar, such as a rapid heartbeat and tremors. If you have diabetes, it is important to check your blood sugar often while you are taking this medication.
Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are using this medication without asking your care team for advice. Some medications may increase your blood pressure.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
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NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.