Azopt is a brand of prescription medication intended for adults with elevated eye pressure due to conditions such as:
- Ocular hypertension, which involves high pressure within the eye
- Open-angle glaucoma, the most common glaucoma type resulting from increased intraocular pressure
The main active ingredient in Azopt is brinzolamide, and it falls under the class of medications known as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Azopt works by reducing intraocular pressure through the suppression of fluid production in the eye.
Azopt is offered as a liquid solution in a dropper bottle, simplifying the application directly to the eye. Each bottle is designed with a concentration of 10 mg/mL.
Why Is Azopt So Expensive?
The cost of Azopt can vary based on factors such as insurance coverage, geographical location, and the pharmacy from which it is purchased. As a brand-name drug, Azopt generally carries a higher price tag compared to its generic counterpart, Brinzolamide.
For example, a 10-milliliter supply of Azopt ophthalmic solution 1% might cost around $389, contingent on the pharmacy. Comparatively, Azopt is typically more costly than both Trusopt and its generic version, dorzolamide.
Azopt Dosage
Azopt is distributed in dropper bottles containing a liquid solution and is administered by applying drops into the eye using the dropper tip.
The medication comes in a single concentration of 10 mg/mL and is available in two bottle sizes: 10 mL and 15 mL.
To manage elevated ocular pressure, the standard Azopt dosage is three times daily, with one drop applied to the affected eye(s).
If you are using other eye drops, it’s essential to consult your doctor to determine if you can continue using them alongside Azopt. Ensure a minimum wait of 10 minutes between applying each different eye drop.
Should you miss a dose of Azopt, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, take the scheduled dose, and return to your regular dosing routine.
Azopt Alternatives
Numerous medications can help manage high ocular pressure, and individual suitability can vary. If you are considering an alternative to Azopt, consult your doctor to discuss other potential effective treatments.
Some alternatives for treating elevated ocular pressure include:
- bimatoprost (Lumigan)
- brimonidine/timolol (Combigan)
- brinzolamide/brimonidine (Simbrinza)
- dorzolamide (Trusopt)
- dorzolamide/timolol (Cosopt)
- latanoprost (Xalatan)
- travoprost (Travatan Z)
- timolol maleate (Timoptic)