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Trusopt (DORZOLAMIDE)

Merck & Co. · FDA-approved approved Small molecule Quality 51/100

Trusopt works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase 2, which is involved in the production of aqueous humor in the eye.

Trusopt (Dorzolamide) is a small molecule carbonic anhydrase inhibitor developed by Merck and currently owned by MSD Subsidiary of Merck. It targets carbonic anhydrase 2 to treat ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. Trusopt is a generic medication with no active Orange Book patents, making it widely available. As a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, it works by reducing the production of aqueous humor in the eye, thereby lowering intraocular pressure. It is an effective treatment option for patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

At a glance

Generic nameDORZOLAMIDE
SponsorMerck & Co.
Drug classCarbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor
TargetCarbonic anhydrase 2
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaCardiovascular
PhaseFDA-approved
First approval1994

Mechanism of action

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is an enzyme found in many tissues of the body including the eye. It catalyzes the reversible reaction involving the hydration of carbon dioxide and the dehydration of carbonic acid. In humans, carbonic anhydrase exists as number of isoenzymes, the most active being carbonic anhydrase II (CA-II), found primarily in red blood cells (RBCs), but also in other tissues. Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary processes of the eye decreases aqueous humor secretion, presumably by slowing the formation of bicarbonate ions with subsequent reduction in sodium and fluid transport. The result is reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP).TRUSOPT contains dorzolamide hydrochloride, an inhibitor of human carbonic anhydrase II. Following topical ocular administration, TRUSOPT reduces elevated intraocular pressure. Elevated intraocular pressure is major risk factor in the pathogenesis of optic nerve damage and glaucomatous visual field loss.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
FDA labelMechanism, indications, dosing, boxed warnings, drug interactions
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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