As with other drugs, Azopt (brinzolamide) can cause side effects, such as blurred vision and unusual taste. If side effects of Azopt become difficult to tolerate, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Azopt is a brand-name drug that comes as a liquid solution in a dropper bottle. It’s prescribed for certain eye conditions, including:

If you have problems with side effects from Azopt, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss ways to manage side effects or other available treatment options. Do not stop taking Azopt without consulting your doctor first.

Azopt can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects persist, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Azopt in clinical trials:

  • blurred vision
  • bitter or sour taste
  • unusual taste

Mild side effects can occur with Azopt use. This list does not include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Azopt’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Azopt include:

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects continue, worsen, or become too difficult to tolerate, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. Sharing your experience helps make medications safer for everyone by giving doctors and researchers more information about how the drug works in real life. If you develop a side effect while taking Azopt and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch or call 800-FDA-1088.

For more information about some of these side effects, see the “Managing side effects” section.

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Serious side effects of Azopt aren’t common, but they may occur.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Azopt, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Allergic reaction

For some people, Azopt can cause an allergic reaction.

But it’s not clear whether this side effect occurred in the drug’s studies.

In general, symptoms of allergic reaction can be mild or serious.

Ways to manage

For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep taking the medication.

For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening. If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Azopt, your doctor may recommend taking a different medication instead.

While using Azopt, you may be able to take steps to make side effects easier to manage.

If you have problems with side effects that do not go away or they become worse, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss options for managing side effects or other available treatment options.

Eyelid inflammation

Eyelid inflammation was a side effect reported in studies of Azopt. Steps you can take to manage symptoms associated with this side effect include:

  • placing a warm compress over your eyes
  • cleansing your eyelids gently
  • avoiding eye makeup for a time

Dry eye

Dry eye was a side effect reported in studies of Azopt. Steps you can take to manage symptoms associated with this side effect include:

  • placing a warm compress over your eyes
  • cleansing your eyelids gently
  • avoiding face products that may further irritate the eyes

Azopt may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Does Azopt (brinzolamide) have a side effect of increased blood pressure?

No, Azopt does not have a side effect of increased blood pressure, according to the drug’s clinical trials. Azopt is used to lower pressure inside the eye caused by conditions such as:

  • ocular hypertension, which is increased fluid pressure in the eye
  • open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common type of glaucoma

If you have questions about your blood pressure or how to manage it, talk with your doctor.

Can I use eyedrops or eye ointments to manage some of Azopt’s side effects?

Yes, if your doctor recommends it, you may be able to use eyedrops or eye ointments to manage some of Azopt’s side effects. Those side effects could include dry eyes, itchy eyes, and others.

If you have questions about the types of eye drops or eye ointments you can use, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Before using Azopt, discuss your health history with your doctor. Azopt may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. Be sure to talk with your doctor if any of the following apply to you:

  • low endothelial cell counts
  • severe kidney problems
  • previous allergic reaction to this or a similar drug
  • pregnancy
  • breastfeeding

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.