Key takeaways
Dorzolamide (Trusopt) and brinzolamide (Azopt) are both carbonic anhydrase inhibitors used to treat high eye pressure in people with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. They are similar in that they both lower eye pressure by reducing the amount of fluid in the eye. However, there are several differences between the two medications. Dorzolamide is available only as a generic, while brinzolamide is available as both a brand (Azopt) and a generic, though brinzolamide tends to be more expensive. Both medications are applied as eye drops three times a day and can cause burning or stinging in the eye and a unusual taste. Both medications are not suitable for people with sulfa allergies, as they can cause allergic reactions. Additionally, brinzolamide is not recommended for people with severe kidney disease, while dorzolamide does not have this specific warning. Both medications can be used with other eye drops, but you should wait a few minutes between applying different medications.
