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Drug interactions

Timolol + Umeclidinium bromide / vilanterol inhaled

Severity: Major

Timolol and Umeclidinium bromide / vilanterol inhaled: 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 non-selective beta-blocker and can antagonise the bronchodilating effect of vilanterol. It may also provoke bronchospasm in patients with COPD or asthma, even with ophthalmic use.

What this interaction means in plain words

Timolol and Umeclidinium bromide / vilanterol inhaled 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.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Pharmacodynamic antagonism at beta-2 adrenergic receptors.

What to do

Avoid non-selective beta-blockers including timolol drops in patients using long-acting beta-agonists. Choose a non-beta-blocker ocular agent or a cardioselective blocker, and monitor respiratory status.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Timolol with Umeclidinium bromide / vilanterol inhaled?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Timolol and Umeclidinium bromide / vilanterol inhaled 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 non-selective beta-blocker and can antagonise the bronchodilating effect of vilanterol. It may also provoke bronchospasm in patients with COPD or asthma, even with ophthalmic use.

How serious is the interaction between Timolol and Umeclidinium bromide / vilanterol inhaled?

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 non-selective beta-blockers including timolol drops in patients using long-acting beta-agonists. Choose a non-beta-blocker ocular agent or a cardioselective blocker, and monitor respiratory status.

What other medicines interact with Timolol?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Timolol with, for example, Acebutolol, Albuterol, Aldesleukin. The full list is on the Timolol page.

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