Drug interactions
Albuterol + Timolol
Severity: Major
Albuterol and Timolol: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Timolol is a nonselective beta-blocker and antagonizes the bronchodilating effect of albuterol. It may also provoke bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD, so rescue therapy may fail.
What this interaction means in plain words
Albuterol and Timolol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Timolol competitively blocks beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the airways, opposing the agonist action of albuterol.
What to do
Avoid nonselective beta-blockers, including ophthalmic timolol, in patients with asthma or bronchospastic disease who need albuterol. If a beta-blocker is essential, use a cardioselective agent and monitor respiratory function.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Timolol
- Acebutolol + Timolol Major
- Aldesleukin + Timolol Major
- Amifostine + Timolol Major
- Amiodarone + Timolol Major
- Arformoterol + Timolol Major
- Atenolol-chlorthalidone + Timolol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Albuterol with Timolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Albuterol and Timolol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Timolol is a nonselective beta-blocker and antagonizes the bronchodilating effect of albuterol. It may also provoke bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD, so rescue therapy may fail.
How serious is the interaction between Albuterol and Timolol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid nonselective beta-blockers, including ophthalmic timolol, in patients with asthma or bronchospastic disease who need albuterol. If a beta-blocker is essential, use a cardioselective agent and monitor respiratory function.
What other medicines interact with Timolol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Timolol with, for example, Acebutolol, Aldesleukin, Amifostine. The full list is on the Timolol page.
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