Benozol Ophthalmic Suspension

Benozol Ophthalmic Suspension is indicated in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is an enzyme found in many tissues of the body including the eye. It catalyzes the reversible reaction involving the hydration of carbondioxide and the dehydration of carbonic acid. 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 intraocular pressure (IOP).

Shake well before use. Insert 1 drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily. It may be used concomitantly with other topical ophthalmic products to lower intraocular pressure. If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is being used, the drugs should be administered at least ten minutes apart.

Pediatric Use: One drop in the affected eye(s) 2 times daily in pediatric patient (4 weeks to 5 years age)

Geriatric Use: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients.

In patients treated with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, rare instances to drug interactions have occurred with high-dose salicylate therapy. Therefore, the potential for such drug interactions should be considered in patients receiving Benozol.

It is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product.

The most frequently reported adverse events associated with Benozol were blurred vision and bitter, sour or unusual taste. These events occurred in approximately 5-10% of patients. Blepharitis, dermatitis, dry eye, foreign body sensation, headache, hyperemia, ocular discharge, ocular discomfort, ocular keratitis, ocular pain, ocular pruritus reactions were reported at an incidence below 1%: allergic reactions, alopecia, chest pain, conjunctivitis, dizziness, dry mouth, dyspnea, dyspepsia, eye fatigue, hypertonia, keratoconjunctivitis, lid margin crusting or sticky sensation, nausea, pharyngitis, tearing and urticaria.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the baby.

Benozol is a sulfonamide and although administered topically it is absorbed systemically. Therefore, the same types of adverse reactions that are attributable to sulfonamides may occur with topical administration of Benozol. Fatalities have occurred, although rarely, due to severe reactions to sulfonamides including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, fulminant hepatic necrosis, agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, and other blood dyscrasias. Sensitization may occur when a sulfonamide is re-administered irrespective of the route of administration. If signs of serious reactions or hypersensitivity occur, discontinue the use of Benozol. Because Benozol and its metabolite are excreted predominantly by the kidney, Benozol is not recommended in renal impairment patients. Benozol- has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment and should be used with caution in such patients.

Although no human data are available, electrolyte imbalance, development of an acidosis 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.

Drugs for miotics and glaucoma

Store at room temperature & protect from light. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface. It is desirable that the contents should not be used more than four weeks after first opening of the bottle. Protect from freezing.