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Angle on Glaucoma: Medications
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bottle of Betoptic-S   Betoptic-S ®

Generic name: betaxolol hydrochloride
Concentration: 0.25%
Mechanism of action: This a beta-1 selective beta blocker which reduces the aqueous humor production, increases drainage, and alters the blood flow of the eye, thus lowering the pressure.
Indications: Treatment of open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Dosage: Instill 1 drop of the 0.25% solution into eye every 12 hours twice everyday. Increase to 0.5% solution if needed. Decrease to 1 drop everyday if condition is controlled. Consult your doctor for the correct dosage.
Use with caution in patients with/during:
  1. Betaxolol should NOT be used in patients with preexisting cardiac disease, such as severe bradycardia, advanced AV block, cardiogenic shock, coronary artery disease, vasospastic angina, or congestive heart failure, particularly those with severe left ventricular dysfunction.
  2. Asthma or pulmonary disease (COPD, emphysema, bronchitis).
  3. Diabetes mellitis because it can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia.
  4. Hyperthyroidism because it may mask tachycardia.
  5. Using an oral beta blocker
  6. Kidney or liver impairments.
  7. Raynaud's disease or peripheral vascular disease.
  8. Myasthenia gravis.
  9. Psoriasis.
  10. Pregnancy, breast feeding or in children.
Side effects:
Common
  • None expected

Life Threatening Symptoms

  • Congestive heart failure (severe shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat)

Less Common to Rare
  • Headache
  • Decreased corneal sensitivity
  • Cold extremities
  • Eyes sensitive to light
  • Dry, burning eyes
  • Edema (excessive accumulation of fluids in cells or tissues)
  • Palpitations (irregular pulsation of the heart)
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Stinging and discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Tearing

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URL: http://www.opt.indiana.edu/clinics/pteduc/glaucoma/meds/betoptic.htm
Revised: March 19, 2002
IU Optometry home page: http://www.opt.indiana.edu/
Comments: Web Administrator
Page design and coding: Terri Greene
Copyright © 2002, The Trustees of Indiana University