Temserin

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Temserin

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Temserin

What is Temserin?

Temserin is a pharmaceutical medication containing the active substance sarpogrelate hydrochloride. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin 5-HT2 receptor antagonists.

Mechanism of Action

The medication works by blocking specific receptors called 5-HT2 receptors, which are found on the surface of platelets and in the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. Under normal conditions, serotonin binds to these receptors, causing platelets to clump together (aggregation) and blood vessels to narrow (vasoconstriction). By inhibiting these actions, Temserin helps to improve blood flow and reduce the formation of blood clots within the vessels.

Therapeutic Use

Temserin is primarily used to treat various symptoms associated with chronic arterial occlusion, a condition where the arteries become narrowed or blocked, limiting the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the limbs. It is commonly utilized to address:

  • Ischemic symptoms: Such as ulcers, pain, and a cold sensation in the extremities (hands and feet).
  • Intermittent claudication: A condition characterized by muscle pain or cramping in the legs during exercise that is relieved by rest.

By enhancing peripheral circulation, the medication aims to alleviate the physical discomfort caused by reduced blood supply to the vascular system.

What side effects are possible with Temserin?

Possible side effects and safety information

Temserin (Timolol maleate) is an ophthalmic solution that can be systemically absorbed, resulting in safety characteristics and adverse reactions consistent with a non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker. The official safety profile is organized by regulatory authorities according to the organ system affected (System-Organ-Class) and documented frequency.

Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions classified as Common in regulatory documents often involve the eye, such as ocular irritation (e.g., stinging or burning), dry eyes, and headache. Less frequent effects are documented across various systems, including dizziness, depression, and fatigue, with certain systemic events being classified as Rare or Frequency Not Known.

Key System-Organ Classes involved include Eye Disorders, Cardiac Disorders, Nervous System Disorders, Vascular Disorders, and Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders.

Serious Safety Considerations

The most serious adverse reactions documented relate to the systemic beta-blocking effects. These include cardiac failure, marked bradycardia (slow heart rate), and bronchospasm (severe breathing difficulty), with reports of cardiac arrest and death in association with these events.

Regulatory documents highlight that Temserin is contraindicated for patients with pre-existing conditions such as bronchial asthma, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sinus bradycardia, or overt cardiac failure. This is due to the heightened risk of serious adverse effects in these groups. The medicine may also mask the signs of acute hypoglycemia in diabetic patients or mask certain signs of hyperthyroidism.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Temserin overdose results from exaggerated systemic absorption of the active ingredient, Timolol maleate, leading to effects consistent with excessive beta-adrenergic blockade. Documented manifestations may include a profoundly slow heart rate (bradycardia), dangerously low blood pressure (hypotension), and associated dizziness or syncope.

The official regulatory profile emphasizes several severe or life-threatening outcomes that require immediate attention. These include overt cardiac failure, second or third-degree heart block (AV block), cardiac arrest, and respiratory failure due to severe bronchospasm. The risk of severe respiratory reactions is significantly increased in patients with pre-existing conditions like bronchial asthma or severe COPD. Additionally, the signs of acute hypoglycemia may be masked in diabetic patients.

When to Seek Help

Regulatory guidance mandates that emergency medical assistance must be sought immediately in all suspected overdose cases. Specifically, individuals must call emergency services if symptoms include collapse, seizure, severe trouble breathing, or the inability to be awakened. In the event of overdose, no specific antidote is known; therefore, treatment is entirely symptomatic and supportive. The prescribing information advises the discontinuation of Temserin at the first sign of cardiac failure and notes that reversal agents may be utilized to manage severe cardiovascular signs.

Therapeutic Uses of Temserin

Quick Facts on Temserin

  • Supports management of elevated intraocular pressure in the eye.
  • Assists in the care of open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
  • Is utilized in certain regimens to address high blood pressure (hypertension).
  • May be part of treatment protocols for the long-term care following a myocardial infarction.
  • Contributes to the prophylaxis (prevention) of migraine headaches.

Temserin is a prescription medication utilized in therapeutic regimens for multiple conditions. In an ophthalmic formulation, it supports the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients diagnosed with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. Maintaining normal IOP may help in preserving visual field function.

In its oral form, Temserin contributes to the management of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, when administered alone or alongside other approved treatments. It may be recommended for patients who have recovered from an acute myocardial infarction to assist in reducing subsequent risks. Additionally, Temserin is indicated for the prophylaxis of migraine headaches, providing support in regulating the frequency of migraine occurrences. All uses are based on established therapeutic guidance for these conditions.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Temserin (Timolol maleate) eligibility is determined by strict official regulatory guidelines, primarily focusing on pre-existing cardiopulmonary conditions.

Populations for Whom Use is Contraindicated

Temserin is contraindicated (must not be used) in patients with the following conditions:

  • Bronchial asthma or a history of bronchial asthma, or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • Sinus bradycardia (slow heart rate), second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block.
  • Overt cardiac failure or cardiogenic shock.
  • Hypersensitivity to the active substance or any component of the product.

Restricted and Age-Based Eligibility

Age-Related Rules: Use is not established for the ophthalmic solution in children younger than 2 years of age. Use in adult and geriatric populations is generally permitted.

Conditional Use: The medicine must be used with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus or mild/moderate COPD. Caution is also required in patients with impaired hepatic or renal function for the oral formulation.

Pregnancy and Lactation: Use during both pregnancy and lactation is generally not recommended, as the drug is systemically absorbed and excreted in human milk. A decision to use must be based on a clear determination that the benefit outweighs the potential risk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Temserin Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile of Temserin (Timolol maleate) is officially documented by regulatory authorities, focusing on combinations that may amplify the systemic effects of the medication. As an ocular beta-blocker, Temserin's active ingredient can be absorbed systemically, leading to potential additive effects with other treatments.


Official Interaction-Related Restrictions

Interaction Type Interacting Agents / Classes Regulatory Caution or Restriction
Pharmacodynamic Reinforcement Oral Beta-Blockers, Calcium Antagonists, Catecholamine-Depleting Drugs (e.g., Reserpine) Risk of additive systemic effects such as hypotension, marked bradycardia, or AV conduction disturbances.
Exposure Modification Potent CYP2D6 Inhibitors (e.g., Quinidine) Potential for decreased Timolol clearance, which can enhance systemic beta-blockade.
Topical Co-Administration Other Topical Ophthalmic Medications Must be administered at least ten minutes apart to avoid rapid washout or excessive exposure.
Contraindicated Combination Other Topical Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agents Not recommended due to potential additive effects on intraocular pressure and systemic beta-blockade.

Special Population Constraint

Regulatory information notes that beta-adrenergic receptor blockade may augment the risk during major surgery under general anesthesia, potentially increasing the risk of severe hypotension and difficulty in maintaining a stable heart rhythm.

Mechanism of Action

How Temserin Works

Temserin acts mechanistically by targeting specific signaling pathways and receptor systems, resulting in the modification of baseline physiological activity.


Modulation of Receptor-Mediated Signaling

Temserin acts within domains involving receptor-mediated signaling by interacting with high-affinity receptors on target cell surfaces. This engagement modifies early molecular steps, initiating or suppressing specific signaling sequences that influence overall systemic physiological outcomes, thereby altering pathway dynamics.


Regulation of Dysregulated Processes

The drug engages mechanisms that regulate overactive or dysregulated processes driven by distinct signaling patterns, primarily by affecting systems where specific transmitters or mediators dominate. This alters signaling patterns, which ultimately influences the activity level of physiological responses.


Influence on Intracellular Signaling Cascades

Temserin modulates key pathways associated with heightened physiological responses by influencing feedback regulation within these cascades. It works by modifying early molecular steps that shape systemic physiological outcomes, which reduces the action of signaling mediators and culminates in modified physiological responses.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Temserin

Temserin (Timolol maleate) is administered via two distinct routes: topical ocular as an eye solution or gel, and oral as a tablet. The choice of route depends on the condition being managed. The ophthalmic solution and gel are available in 0.25% and 0.5% concentrations. The standard initial topical regimen is one drop of 0.25% solution administered twice a day into the affected eye(s). The gel-forming solution is used once daily, and the container must be shaken once prior to instillation.

For the oral tablet form, such as for hypertension, dosing ranges from 10 mg to a maximum of 60 mg daily, typically administered in divided doses. Any increase in the oral dosage must be spaced by an interval of at least seven days to allow for accurate therapeutic assessment. When discontinuing long-term oral therapy, the daily dosage must be gradually reduced over one to two weeks.

Proper administration of the eye drops requires adherence to specific procedures. To reduce systemic absorption, patients are instructed to perform nasolacrimal occlusion (applying gentle pressure to the tear duct) or close the eyelids for two minutes after instillation. Additionally, soft contact lenses must be removed before application and should not be reinserted for 15 minutes. If a dose of the eye solution is missed, the patient should apply the dose as soon as remembered unless it is near the time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped; doses should not be doubled.

Recent Clinical Evidence

The evidence base for Temserin (active ingredient: Timolol maleate) was evaluated in a variety of official research studies, including Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and comprehensive analyses of the clinical record. The research provides context regarding the medicine's use, but study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted and research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly.

The active ingredient was studied for elevated pressure inside the eye, such as ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. Research examined outcomes related to the absolute and relative change in Intraocular Pressure (IOP) from the start of the study. Findings describe patterns observed in studies where research highlights changes measured related to IOP shifts. Researchers also explored whether use was associated with differences in the progression of visual field defects.

The medicine was also evaluated in several large-scale, long-term clinical trials following a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Research examined outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, including rates of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and the incidence of a second, non-fatal myocardial infarction. Studies reported how patient outcomes evolved over multi-year periods, with data showing patterns related to all-cause mortality and the incidence of a second myocardial infarction.

For migraine headache prophylaxis, the active ingredient was studied for the prevention of attacks through various RCTs. Research examined outcomes related to frequency of migraine attacks over defined time intervals. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to monthly migraine attack frequency.

The evidence base incorporates both short-term assessments and some long-term follow-up studies to determine the durability of observed patterns. However, limited information for long-term outcomes exists to fully characterize the effects over many years, particularly concerning structural changes in the eye. Research examined different patient groups, but data for certain populations remain insufficient, specifically pediatric patients (under six years of age) for the eye drop formulation. Evidence quality varies across studies, and comparative research is limited in some areas, meaning studies have not fully explored the outcomes against every alternative treatment option.

Key Studies & References Timolol-Induced Reduction in Mortality and Reinfarction in Patients Surviving Acute Myocardial Infarction (The Norwegian Multicenter Study Group)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Temserin (FAQ)


Q: What is Temserin used for besides the main condition?

Temserin (Timolol maleate) is officially indicated for the treatment of elevated pressure inside the eye, such as in glaucoma. It is also described in official documents as being used to help reduce the risk of a second heart attack and lower cardiovascular mortality following a myocardial infarction. Additionally, official documents describe its use for the prophylaxis, or prevention, of migraine headaches.


Q: Does Temserin cause weight gain or weight loss?

Official regulatory documents list both weight loss and weight gain in the adverse event profile for Temserin. However, these effects are typically classified as less common or frequency not reported in official documentation, depending on the specific form of the medicine (oral vs. ophthalmic solution).


Q: How long does it take before Temserin starts working?

For its use in reducing pressure inside the eye, the onset of action is often detectable within about one-half hour after a single topical dose. According to official clinical pharmacology information, the maximum pressure-lowering effect is generally achieved within one to two hours after administration.


Q: Do I need to avoid any specific foods while taking Temserin?

Regulatory documents typically do not list specific food restrictions for use with Temserin. However, official documents indicate that caution is advised regarding combined use with alcohol due to potential additive effects in lowering blood pressure.


Q: Can older people use Temserin?

Official regulatory information, which includes data from clinical studies, indicates that no overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly patients and younger adults for some forms of Temserin. No specific constraint based on age alone is noted, but safety decisions should always align with official contraindications and patient characteristics.


Q: Can Temserin be taken with alcohol?

Official regulatory documents indicate that the combined use of Temserin (Timolol) and alcohol (ethanol) can result in an additive effect that lowers blood pressure. This interaction may potentially increase the risk of symptoms such as dizziness or fainting.


Q: Is Temserin available over the counter in some countries?

Based on regulatory drug product listings from major health authorities, Temserin (Timolol maleate) is generally categorized as a prescription-only medicine. This requirement applies to both its oral tablet form and its topical ophthalmic solution.


Q: Is Temserin a habit-forming drug?

The official product information and regulatory documents for Temserin (Timolol maleate) do not classify it as a controlled substance. These sources contain no warnings regarding a potential for abuse or dependence.


Q: Does the official product information for Temserin mention pregnancy risks?

Yes, the official product information addresses the use of Temserin during pregnancy. It notes that the active ingredient, Timolol maleate, has been studied in pregnant women, and that systemic absorption occurs even when the drug is used as eye drops.


Q: Can I take Temserin if I have kidney problems?

Official clinical information states that Temserin (Timolol) and its breakdown products are primarily excreted by the kidney. For the oral form, the drug’s half-life remains largely unchanged in patients with moderate kidney insufficiency, and official guidance notes that the drug is used with caution in kidney patients.


Q: What if I already take a vitamin supplement; will it interact with Temserin?

Some regulatory-related sources suggest that taking Temserin (Timolol) alongside common multivitamin with mineral supplements may decrease the effects of Temserin. In cases where co-administration is necessary, official information may state that separating the administration times is advised.


Q: How long does Temserin stay in my body?

Based on pharmacokinetic studies, the drug half-life of Temserin (Timolol maleate) in the blood plasma is approximately 4 hours after the oral tablet is taken. The half-life describes the time it takes for the concentration of the medicine to be reduced by half.


Q: What class of drug does Temserin belong to?

Temserin (Timolol maleate) is classified as a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent, commonly referred to as a non-cardioselective beta-blocker. This classification is based on its mechanism of action as described in official documents.


Q: Are there any warnings about driving while taking Temserin?

Official warnings exist regarding the ability to drive or use machinery. The instillation of the eye drops may cause a transient blurring of vision immediately after use. The official warning notes that the ability to drive or use machinery may be affected by these effects.


Q: Is it normal to feel a change in appetite with Temserin?

Regulatory adverse event listings for Temserin (Timolol) include anorexia (a loss of appetite). This is noted as a less common or infrequently reported side effect for some forms of the medication.


Q: What are the ingredients in Temserin besides the main active compound?

The active compound is Timolol maleate. According to official product descriptions, the inactive ingredients in the ophthalmic solution commonly include buffering agents like sodium phosphate and a preservative, often benzalkonium chloride.


Q: Is there a generic version of Temserin available?

Regulatory databases in various countries list multiple approved drug products that contain the active ingredient Timolol maleate from different manufacturers. This indicates that generic versions of the medicine are widely available.


Q: What should I know about taking Temserin if I have liver disease?

Official clinical pharmacology information states that the drug Timolol is partially metabolized (broken down) by the liver. While there is no specific contraindication for liver disease alone, official information suggests that caution is advised in cases of impaired liver function.


Q: What kind of monitoring or tests are sometimes needed when taking Temserin?

Official product information notes the requirement for monitoring for changes in blood pressure and pulse rate. Additionally, because Temserin may mask the signs of acute low blood sugar, official documents highlight the need for cautious monitoring in patients with diabetes.


Q: Can Temserin cause stomach issues?

Yes, official adverse reaction listings include several documented effects on the digestive system. These may include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dyspepsia (indigestion), and dry mouth.


Q: Does Temserin affect sleep patterns?

Official adverse events reported in regulatory documents indicate that Temserin may affect sleep patterns. Reported side effects include insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) and nightmares.


Q: Does Temserin have a risk of allergic reaction?

Yes, regulatory documents list a risk of systemic allergic reactions including severe events like anaphylaxis, angioedema, and hives (urticaria). The drug is also officially contraindicated (should not be used) in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients.

How should Temserin be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

Temserin (Timolol Maleate Ophthalmic Solution) must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically between 15 C and 25 C (59 F and 77 F). It is essential to protect the solution from freezing and keep the bottle out of light. The product should be stored in an upright position. All forms of Temserin must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Stability and Handling

Preservative-free unit dose containers must be stored in their original foil overwrap until needed. Once the overwrap is opened, the unit dose container must be used within one month.

Disposal Instructions

After all doses have been used, any extra medicine remaining in the original bottle must be thrown away. Follow general local guidelines for the proper disposal of unused or expired medicines.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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