Dorzolomide/timolol switched from drop a bottle to single unit doses

[YoungontheOutside]

In my repeat prescriptions, I have been switched from the 5ML dropper bottle to single unit doses. I wasn’t contacted by my GP first so I have no idea why, but because they’re single unit doses and I have to use it morning and night, effectively I have only been provided with half what I usually get, not to mention it is an environmental. Does anyone know if there is a shortage of the bottles?

[NewCardinal]

Don't know about a shortage, but single unit doses are usually preservative-free, so are better for you. It would be unhygienic to use them more than once so would be worth asking your doctor for a second lot

[YoungontheOutside in reply to NewCardinal]

Thanks. I believe the dropper bottle that lasts 28 days is also preservative-free, so it is a puzzle.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

Hi YoungontheOutside. There was shortage of the Cosopt PF in the bottle form, but this was November 2023 and after checking on Opthalmology sights for shortages there were no signs of Cosopt, so it looked as though the problem had been rectified. There is an alternative to the Cosopt PF in a bottle. It is called Vizidor and is exactly the same as Cosopt PF bottle. It may be worth asking your pharmacist if they have this is stock.

[YoungontheOutside in reply to Trish_GlaucomaUK]

Thanks Trish. My medical practice has made me an appointment tomorrow with the practice pharmacist to discuss, so hopefully it will be resolved 🤞🏻

[YoungontheOutside]

I have spoken to my practice pharmacist now and thought it would be courteous to give an up update. Apparently unit doses are what I was originally prescribed by Moorfields. However, until now, I have only been given dropper bottles. Someone at my GP practice spotted it and has changed it to what Moorfields originally prescribed. Therefore I have to have unit doses now and the only way to change that is by contacting Moorfields and getting them to change the prescription. I was also told that unit doses are prescribed more frequently now, as people sometimes find it hard to squeeze the bottles effectively in order to get the right amount coming out.

[Mel114 in reply to YoungontheOutside]

Given the dreadful bottles of Dorzolomide I have received recently (flat topped & have to be squeezed really hard) I would welcome the single unit format, though I do take your point about the environmental issue.