Trusopt: The Discontinuation of a Brand Name
For many patients managing open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, Trusopt was a familiar name. Manufactured by Merck, this eye drop medication contained the active ingredient dorzolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that helps to lower eye pressure. The drug was approved by the FDA in 1994, marking a significant step forward in treating these conditions.
However, after the drug's patent expired, the brand-name product was eventually discontinued. Official reports from sources like Drugs.com confirm that the manufacturer discontinued the original Trusopt formulation. Discontinuation notices for the preservative-free version were also posted in Canada. This is a common pattern in the pharmaceutical industry: once a patent expires, generic versions emerge, leading manufacturers to often cease production of the more expensive brand-name drug.
The Availability of Generic Dorzolamide
While the brand-name product is no longer on the market, the medication is far from gone. The active ingredient, dorzolamide, is widely produced as a generic eye drop and is readily available through numerous pharmaceutical manufacturers. This generic availability ensures that patients still have access to this important treatment for managing high intraocular pressure.
The widespread availability of generic alternatives brings two main benefits to patients. First, it ensures continuity of care, allowing patients who once used Trusopt to seamlessly transition to a new product with the same active ingredient. Second, generic drugs are almost always more affordable, representing significant cost savings for individuals and healthcare systems alike.
How Generic Dorzolamide Works
Dorzolamide functions by inhibiting the carbonic anhydrase enzyme, which is responsible for producing the aqueous humor fluid in the eye. By suppressing this enzyme, the medication decreases the production of fluid, thereby lowering the pressure inside the eye. This mechanism is crucial for preventing damage to the optic nerve that can lead to vision loss in glaucoma patients.
Available Generic Manufacturers
Generic dorzolamide is produced by a variety of pharmaceutical companies. Some manufacturers that have had or currently have dorzolamide ophthalmic solution available include:
- Bausch Health
- Sandoz
- Micro Labs
- Somerset Therapeutics
Patients can consult their pharmacist to determine which generic product is currently in stock.
Dorzolamide in Combination Products (e.g., Cosopt)
Dorzolamide is also available as an active ingredient in combination eye drops, most notably with timolol, a beta-blocker. This combination product is sold under the brand name Cosopt and is also available in generic form. Cosopt combines two different mechanisms to reduce eye pressure and is often prescribed when a single medication is not sufficient. A generic version, dorzolamide/timolol, is also available from several manufacturers, often at a lower cost than the brand.
Comparison of Trusopt, Generic Dorzolamide, and Cosopt
| Attribute | Trusopt (Brand) | Dorzolamide (Generic) | Cosopt (Dorzolamide/Timolol Combo) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Discontinued | Widely available | Available as brand and generic |
| Active Ingredient(s) | Dorzolamide | Dorzolamide | Dorzolamide + Timolol |
| Cost | Historically more expensive | Significantly lower cost | Higher than generic dorzolamide alone |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically 3 times daily | Typically 3 times daily | Typically 2 times daily |
| Formulation | Solution | Solution | Multi-dose or preservative-free |
| Considerations | N/A (discontinued) | Sulfa allergy, potential for bitter taste | Sulfa allergy, asthma/heart conditions |
Important Considerations for Patients
Patients who were using Trusopt should consult their doctor or ophthalmologist to get a new prescription for generic dorzolamide. The generic version is bioequivalent to the original brand name and provides the same therapeutic effect. It's crucial not to suddenly stop using eye drops for glaucoma, as this can cause eye pressure to increase and lead to irreversible vision damage.
When transitioning to a generic or a combination product like Cosopt, patients should be aware of any new or different side effects. For instance, the addition of timolol in Cosopt adds beta-blocker-related risks for people with certain heart or respiratory conditions. Discussing all health concerns with a healthcare provider is essential for a safe and effective medication plan.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to "Do they still make Trusopt?" is no. The brand-name product was discontinued by Merck after its patent expired. However, the vital active ingredient, dorzolamide, remains widely accessible and more affordable as a generic prescription eye drop. This ensures that patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension can continue to receive effective treatment. Patients can also find dorzolamide in combination products, such as the brand Cosopt or its generic equivalent. As with any medication change, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to ensure a smooth transition and appropriate management of your eye condition.
For more information on drug shortages and availability, patients and healthcare providers can refer to resources like the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). https://www.ashp.org/drug-shortages/current-shortages
