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Can you take Combigan with Hydralazine?

2 drug interactions and 26 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:

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Drug interactions

Moderate drug interactions

Moderate:

hydrALAZINE brimonidine ophthalmic

Applies to: hydralazine and Combigan (brimonidine / timolol ophthalmic)

After using brimonidine ophthalmic, some of the medication may be absorbed into the bloodstream and occasionally produce cardiovascular side effects such as decreases in blood pressure and heart rate. Combining it with hydrALAZINE or other medications that can also have these effects may increase the risk. You may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and/or changes in pulse or heart beat. These side effects are most likely to be seen at the beginning of treatment, following a dose increase, or when treatment is restarted after an interruption. Let your doctor know if you develop these symptoms and they do not go away after a few days or they become troublesome. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you, and use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Moderate:

timolol ophthalmic brimonidine ophthalmic

Applies to: Combigan (brimonidine / timolol ophthalmic) and Combigan (brimonidine / timolol ophthalmic)

After using brimonidine ophthalmic, some of the medication may be absorbed into the bloodstream and occasionally produce cardiovascular side effects such as decreases in blood pressure and heart rate. Combining it with timolol ophthalmic or other medications that can also have these effects may increase the risk. You may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and/or changes in pulse or heart beat. These side effects are most likely to be seen at the beginning of treatment, following a dose increase, or when treatment is restarted after an interruption. Let your doctor know if you develop these symptoms and they do not go away after a few days or they become troublesome. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you, and use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate:

hydrALAZINE Alcohol (Ethanol)

Applies to: hydralazine

Ethanol and hydrALAZINE may have additive effects in lowering your blood pressure. You may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or changes in pulse or heart rate, especially when treatment is started, the dose is changed, or treatment is restarted. Tell your doctor promptly if these symptoms occur and seek urgent medical help if you faint or have severe dizziness. Avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you, and use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Disease interactions

25 potential interactions Applies to: 23 conditions, including Depression, Allergies, Heart Failure, Asthma, and COPD.

Allergies

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Allergies.

Topically applied beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. The use of beta-blockers in patients with a history of allergic reactions or anaphylaxis may be associated with heightened reactivity to culprit allergens. The frequency and/or severity of attacks may be increased during beta-blocker therapy. In addition, these patients may be refractory to the usual doses of epinephrine used to treat acute hypersensitivity reactions and may require a beta-agonist such as isoproterenol.

Asthma

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Asthma.

Ophthalmic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) in general should not be used in patients with a current or past history of bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. In the respiratory tract, beta blockade may adversely affect pulmonary function by counteracting the bronchodilation produced by catecholamine stimulation of beta-2 receptors. Although agents with beta-1 selectivity (e.g., betaxolol) are considered safer in patients with bronchospastic diseases, cardioselectivity is not absolute and may be lost with larger doses or higher plasma levels.

Bone Marrow Depression/Low Blood Counts

Major:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a major potential interaction with Bone Marrow Depression/Low Blood Counts.

Hydralazine may rarely cause blood dyscrasias at recommended dosages. Reduction in hemoglobin, red cell count, agranulocytosis, leukopenia, and purpura have been reported. Therapy with hydralazine should be administered cautiously in patients with these preexisting conditions and if such abnormalities develop during the course of therapy, treatment should be discontinued. Monitoring blood counts should be considered for those patients at higher risk.

Cardiogenic Shock

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Cardiogenic Shock.

The use of ophthalmic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) is considered by manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with cardiogenic shock. Topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. In cardiac tissues, beta blockade causes a reduction in inotropic as well as chronotropic activity, which may further depress cardiac output and blood pressure in such patients.

Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders

Moderate:

Combigan

The brimonidine ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders.

Topically applied alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing rare but clinically significant systemic effects. In the central nervous system, alpha adrenergic stimulation causes an inhibition of sympathetic vasomotor centers, resulting in decreased peripheral resistance and bradycardia. While the commercially available agents in the U.S. (apraclonidine and brimonidine) are hydrophilic and do not readily distribute across the ocular-blood barrier into the CNS, prolonged use may increase the risk of systemic effects. There have been occasional reports of bradycardia, chest heaviness or burning, palpitation, reduced blood pressure, and orthostatic hypotension when apraclonidine 1% was administered once or twice a day for 4 weeks to individuals not undergoing laser surgery. Therapy with ophthalmic alpha-2 adrenergic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with severe, uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, coronary or cerebrovascular insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, chronic renal failure, Raynaud's disease, thromboangiitis obliterans, and a predisposition for orthostatic hypotension.

Cerebral Vascular Disorder

Moderate:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a moderate potential interaction with Cerebral Vascular Disorder.

The vasodilatory effects of hydralazine may aggravate cerebral vasculopathy. Therapy with hydralazine should be administered cautiously in patients with cerebral vasculopathy.

Cerebrovascular Insufficiency

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Cerebrovascular Insufficiency.

Due to their negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on the heart, beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) reduce cardiac output and may precipitate or aggravate symptoms of arterial insufficiency in patients with peripheral vascular disease. In addition, the nonselective beta-blockers (e.g., timolol, carteolol) may attenuate catecholamine-mediated vasodilation during exercise by blocking beta-2 receptors in peripheral vessels. Since topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed and may produce clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels, therapy with ophthalmic beta-blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Close monitoring for progression of arterial obstruction is advised.

Moderate:

Combigan

The brimonidine ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Cerebrovascular Insufficiency.

Topically applied alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing rare but clinically significant systemic effects. In the central nervous system, alpha adrenergic stimulation causes an inhibition of sympathetic vasomotor centers, resulting in decreased peripheral resistance and bradycardia. While the commercially available agents in the U.S. (apraclonidine and brimonidine) are hydrophilic and do not readily distribute across the ocular-blood barrier into the CNS, prolonged use may increase the risk of systemic effects. There have been occasional reports of bradycardia, chest heaviness or burning, palpitation, reduced blood pressure, and orthostatic hypotension when apraclonidine 1% was administered once or twice a day for 4 weeks to individuals not undergoing laser surgery. Therapy with ophthalmic alpha-2 adrenergic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with severe, uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, coronary or cerebrovascular insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, chronic renal failure, Raynaud's disease, thromboangiitis obliterans, and a predisposition for orthostatic hypotension.

COPD

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with COPD.

Ophthalmic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) in general should not be used in patients with a current or past history of bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. In the respiratory tract, beta blockade may adversely affect pulmonary function by counteracting the bronchodilation produced by catecholamine stimulation of beta-2 receptors. Although agents with beta-1 selectivity (e.g., betaxolol) are considered safer in patients with bronchospastic diseases, cardioselectivity is not absolute and may be lost with larger doses or higher plasma levels.

Depression

Moderate:

Combigan

The brimonidine ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Depression.

Topically applied alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing rare but clinically significant systemic effects. Depression has infrequently been associated with the ocular use of these drugs due to their inhibiting effect on the sympathetic nervous system. Depressed patients should be monitored for exacerbation of their condition during therapy with ophthalmic alpha-2 adrenergic agents.

Diabetes Mellitus

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.

Beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia such as tremors, tachycardia and blood pressure changes. In addition, the nonselective beta-blockers (e.g., timolol, carteolol) may inhibit catecholamine-mediated glycogenolysis, thereby potentiating insulin-induced hypoglycemia and delaying the recovery of normal blood glucose levels. Since topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed and may produce clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels, therapy with ophthalmic beta-blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with diabetes or predisposed to spontaneous hypoglycemia.

Glomerulonephritis

Moderate:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a moderate potential interaction with Glomerulonephritis.

The use of hydralazine has been associated with the development of glomerulonephritis. Hydralazine should be used with caution in patients with advanced renal damage and these patients may require a lower dose. Renal function should be monitored and supported as required.

Heart Block

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Heart Block.

The use of ophthalmic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) is considered by manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with sinus bradyarrhythmia or heart block greater than the first degree (unless a functioning pacemaker is present). Topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. In cardiac tissues, beta blockade causes a reduction in inotropic as well as chronotropic activity, which may further depress cardiac function in such patients.

Heart Failure

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Heart Failure.

The use of ophthalmic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) is considered by manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with overt congestive heart failure (CHF). Topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. Since sympathetic stimulation may be important in maintaining the hemodynamic function in patients with CHF, beta blockade can worsen the heart failure. However, therapy with ophthalmic beta-blockers can be administered cautiously in some CHF patients provided they are well compensated and receiving digitalis, diuretics, an ACE inhibitor, and/or nitrates. Beta-blockers should be discontinued if cardiac failure develops or worsens during therapy.

Hyperthyroidism

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.

Beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) may mask some symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as tachycardia, anxiety, tremor, and heat intolerance. Abrupt withdrawal of beta-blocker therapy in thyrotoxic patients may exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism or precipitate a thyroid storm. Since topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed and may produce clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels, therapy with ophthalmic beta-blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with or suspected of having hyperthyroidism. Cessation of beta-blocker therapy, when necessary, should occur gradually over a period of 1 to 2 weeks. Patients should be advised not to discontinue treatment without first consulting with the physician. Close monitoring is recommended during and after therapy withdrawal.

Hypotension

Moderate:

Combigan

The brimonidine ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Hypotension.

Topically applied alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing rare but clinically significant systemic effects. In the central nervous system, alpha adrenergic stimulation causes an inhibition of sympathetic vasomotor centers, resulting in decreased peripheral resistance and bradycardia. While the commercially available agents in the U.S. (apraclonidine and brimonidine) are hydrophilic and do not readily distribute across the ocular-blood barrier into the CNS, prolonged use may increase the risk of systemic effects. There have been occasional reports of bradycardia, chest heaviness or burning, palpitation, reduced blood pressure, and orthostatic hypotension when apraclonidine 1% was administered once or twice a day for 4 weeks to individuals not undergoing laser surgery. Therapy with ophthalmic alpha-2 adrenergic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with severe, uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, coronary or cerebrovascular insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, chronic renal failure, Raynaud's disease, thromboangiitis obliterans, and a predisposition for orthostatic hypotension.

Ischemic Heart Disease

Major:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a major potential interaction with Ischemic Heart Disease.

The use of hydralazine is contraindicated in patients with coronary artery disease. Reflex tachycardia may commonly occur. Palpitations and chest pain have also been reported. Myocardial infarction has been associated with the use of hydralazine.

Liver Disease

Moderate:

Combigan

The brimonidine ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Topically applied alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing rare but clinically significant systemic effects. There are limited data concerning the pharmacokinetic disposition or the clinical use of these drugs in patients with renal and/or liver disease. Therapy with ophthalmic alpha-2 adrenergic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with significantly impaired renal or hepatic function.

Lupus Erythematosus

Major:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a major potential interaction with Lupus Erythematosus.

The use of hydralazine has been associated with the development of lupus erythematosus and lupus-like syndromes, as well as exacerbation of the disease. Hydralazine therapy should be withdrawn in patients experiencing worsening of preexisting lupus. Monitoring complete blood counts, and antinuclear antibody titers before and during prolonged therapy is recommended.

Myoneural Disorder

Moderate:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Myoneural Disorder.

Topically applied beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. In the nervous and musculoskeletal systems, beta blockade may potentiate muscle weakness consistent with certain myasthenic symptoms such as diplopia, ptosis, and generalized weakness. Several beta-blockers have been associated rarely with aggravation of muscle weakness in patients with preexisting myasthenia gravis or myasthenic symptoms.

Peripheral Arterial Disease

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Peripheral Arterial Disease.

Due to their negative inotropic and chronotropic effects on the heart, beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) reduce cardiac output and may precipitate or aggravate symptoms of arterial insufficiency in patients with peripheral vascular disease. In addition, the nonselective beta-blockers (e.g., timolol, carteolol) may attenuate catecholamine-mediated vasodilation during exercise by blocking beta-2 receptors in peripheral vessels. Since topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed and may produce clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels, therapy with ophthalmic beta-blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Close monitoring for progression of arterial obstruction is advised.

Renal Dysfunction

Moderate:

Combigan

The brimonidine ophthalmic in Combigan has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Topically applied alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing rare but clinically significant systemic effects. There are limited data concerning the pharmacokinetic disposition or the clinical use of these drugs in patients with renal and/or liver disease. Therapy with ophthalmic alpha-2 adrenergic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with significantly impaired renal or hepatic function.

Moderate:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

The use of hydralazine has been associated with the development of glomerulonephritis. Hydralazine should be used with caution in patients with advanced renal damage and these patients may require a lower dose. Renal function should be monitored and supported as required.

Sinus Node Dysfunction

Major:

Combigan

The timolol ophthalmic in Combigan has a major potential interaction with Sinus Node Dysfunction.

The use of ophthalmic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka beta-blockers) is considered by manufacturers to be contraindicated in patients with sinus bradyarrhythmia or heart block greater than the first degree (unless a functioning pacemaker is present). Topically applied beta-blockers are systemically absorbed, with the potential for producing clinically significant systemic effects even at low or undetectable plasma levels. In cardiac tissues, beta blockade causes a reduction in inotropic as well as chronotropic activity, which may further depress cardiac function in such patients.

Valvular Heart Disease

Major:

hydralazine

hydrALAZINE has a major potential interaction with Valvular Heart Disease.

The use of hydralazine is contraindicated in patients with mitral valvular rheumatic heart disease.

More resources

Combigan

A total of 586 drugs are known to interact with Combigan.

hydralazine

A total of 440 drugs are known to interact with hydralazine.

Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.