Key takeaways
Istalol (timolol maleate) and Timolol (timolol maleate) are both beta blocker eye drops used to lower eye pressure in conditions like ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. They share the same active ingredient and are used to treat the same conditions, but they have some differences. Istalol is a brand-name medication that is typically used once daily in the morning, while Timolol is a generic medication that can be used once or twice daily. Istalol is a longer-acting formulation, which allows for once-daily dosing, whereas Timolol may require twice-daily dosing. Both medications can cause temporary burning or stinging in the eye, but Istalol may cause more side effects than some other timolol eye medications. Generic Timolol is available, making it a potentially more cost-effective option. Both medications have similar warnings and contraindications, such as not being recommended for people with asthma or certain heart conditions.
