Re: Timolol vs Istalol

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Re: Timolol vs Istalol

Salmon Egg

21 Jun 2006 18:24

On 6/21/06 10:12 AM, in article c6fmg.4282$Td6.3074@trnddc08, "Dick Adams"
<bad.addr@nonexist.com> wrote:

>>> My eye doc has recommended that I swith from Timolol to Istalol for my
>>> glaucoma.
[quoted text clipped - 17 lines]
> --
> Dicky

I sent my post before reading this one. I cannot agree more. I did think
that Timoptic was the only brand name until I read your post.

As I am a firm believer in atomic and molecular science, it would be against
my religion to consider that the brand name of a molecule affects its
effectiveness. Nevertheless, I know that people with limited scientific
knowledge and experience still the the more expensive is better.

Bill
-- Ferme le Bush

Dick Adams

21 Jun 2006 17:12

> > My eye doc has recommended that I swith from Timolol to Istalol for my
> > glaucoma.
> > Problem is that in my drug plan Timolol costs me $3 foe 90 day supply,
> > and Istalol is $76!!! It's not in their "preferred list".
> > Is it worth it? My pressure seems to be under control, consistently
> > about 18 in both eyes.

Timolol is the generic name for Istalol. My wife does not trust generics
at all. Timolol is a beta blocker for the eye.

> This is a question only your doctor, who knows your history and eyes
> and the reason for switching, can answer. Call his office and explain
> the problem.

You could try it, but most doctors do not have time to do a search so as
to find out what I just mentioned. Also, doctors sometimes get biased by
the pretty ladies who visit them to promote certain brands and leave
starter kits, and some of them, like my wife, do not trust generics.

--
Dicky

Dr Judy

21 Jun 2006 16:40

> My eye doc has recommended that I swith from Timolol to Istalol for my
> glaucoma.
> Problem is that in my drug plan Timolol costs me $3 foe 90 day supply,
> and Istalol is $76!!! It's not in their "preferred list".
> Is it worth it? My pressure seems to be under control, consistently
> about 18 in both eyes.

This is a question only your doctor, who knows your history and eyes
and the reason for switching, can answer. Call his office and explain
the problem.

If essential to switch, there may be a provision in your plan for that
drug if your doctor provides a compelling reason.

Dr Judy

Jim T.	21 Jun 2006 14:15
My eye doc has recommended that I swith from Timolol to Istalol for my glaucoma. Problem is that in my drug plan Timolol costs me $3 foe 90 day supply, and Istalol is $76!!! It's not in their "preferred list". Is it worth it? My pressure seems to be under control, consistently about 18 in both eyes.

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