Timolol (eye drops)

Glaucoma eye drop (timolol type)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Timolol is a glaucoma eye drop (timolol type) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Timolet 0.5%. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Lowers pressure inside the eye in glaucoma, protecting eyesight.

How it works

A beta blocker eye drop that reduces fluid production in the eye, lowering pressure in glaucoma.

How to take it

One drop once or twice a day. Press on the inner corner of the eye for 1 minute after to reduce absorption into the body.

Common side effects

  • Stinging
  • Dry eyes
  • Slow pulse

Get medical help straight away if

  • Wheeze or breathlessness
  • Very slow pulse
  • Fainting

Be careful

Can be absorbed into the body: tell your doctor if you have asthma, COPD or a slow heartbeat. Glaucoma drops must be used every day, usually for life.

Other medicines and interactions

Can add to beta blocker or calcium channel blocker tablets. Avoid if you have asthma.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your eye doctor; babies may need monitoring.

Brands of Timolol (1)

Timolet 0.5%

Common questions

What is Timolol used for?

Lowers pressure inside the eye in glaucoma, protecting eyesight.

How does Timolol work?

A beta blocker eye drop that reduces fluid production in the eye, lowering pressure in glaucoma.

How should I take Timolol?

One drop once or twice a day. Press on the inner corner of the eye for 1 minute after to reduce absorption into the body.

What are the side effects of Timolol?

Common: Stinging, dry eyes, slow pulse. Get help straight away for: Wheeze or breathlessness, very slow pulse, fainting.

Does Timolol interact with other medicines?

Can add to beta blocker or calcium channel blocker tablets. Avoid if you have asthma.

Is Timolol safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your eye doctor; babies may need monitoring.

Does Timolol need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Timolol?

Timolet 0.5%.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.