Brinzolamide (4 brand names, 1 dosage form, 1 route)
Available dosage forms: SUSPENSION/DROPS.
Routes of administration: OPHTHALMIC.
Brand Names
- AZOPT
- BRINZOLAMIDE
- BRINZOLAMIDE; BRIMONIDINE TARTRATE
- SIMBRINZA
Indications and Usage
Brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor indicated in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.
Dosage and Administration
The recommended dose is one drop of brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension in the affected eye(s) 3 times daily. Brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension may be used concomitantly with other topical ophthalmic drug products to lower IOP. If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is being used, the drugs should be administered at least 10 minutes apart.
Contraindications
Brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product.
Mechanism of Action
Carbonic anhydrase is an enzyme found in many tissues of the body including the eye. It catalyzes the reversible reaction involving the hydration of carbon dioxide and the dehydration of carbonic acid. In humans, carbonic anhydrase exists as a number of isoenzymes, the most active being carbonic anhydrase II, found primarily in red blood cells (RBCs), but also in other tissues. Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary processes of the eye decreases aqueous humor secretion, presumably by slowing the formation of bicarbonate ions with subsequent reduction in sodium and fluid transport. The result is a reduction in IOP. Brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension contains brinzolamide, an inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase II. Following topical ocular administration, brinzolamide inhibits aqueous humor formation and reduces elevated IOP. Elevated IOP is a major risk factor in the pathogenesis of optic nerve damage and glaucomatous visual field loss.
Overdosage
Although no human data are available, electrolyte imbalance, development of an acidotic state, and possible nervous system effects may occur following oral administration of an overdose. Serum electrolyte levels (particularly potassium) and blood pH levels should be monitored.