Key takeaways
Dorzolamide (Trusopt) and furosemide (Lasix) are both medications that can be used to manage conditions related to fluid pressure, but they work in different parts of the body and belong to different medication classes. Dorzolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used as an eye drop to lower high pressure in the eye for conditions like ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. Furosemide, on the other hand, is a loop diuretic taken orally to reduce swelling from fluid retention due to heart, liver, or kidney problems and can also lower blood pressure, though it's not the first choice for this. Dorzolamide is applied as an eye drop three times a day, while furosemide is taken as a tablet or oral solution once or twice daily. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable. Dorzolamide's side effects are mostly localized to the eye, such as burning or stinging, while furosemide can cause more systemic effects like increased urination, dizziness, and potential dehydration. Both medications should be used cautiously if you have a sulfa allergy, as they can cause allergic reactions.
