Betaxolol

Uses of Betaxolol

Betaxolol is commonly used to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

How Betaxolol Works

Betaxolol is a beta-blocker which has a greater affinity for β1-receptors. It works by reducing the intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humour in glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Side Effects of Betaxolol

Eye discomfort (stinging and burning), Bradycardia, Palpitation, Chest pain, Difficulty in sleeping (Insomnia), Fatigue, Lethargy, Nausea, Dyspepsia, Diarrhea

Warnings

Kidney High Risk

Betaxolol should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Betaxolol may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Betaxolol. Taking Betaxolol with alcohol may have additive effects in decreasing blood pressure. You may experience lightheadedness, fainting, headache, dizziness and changes in pulse or heart rate.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Betaxolol may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. Betaxolol should be avoided during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. Please consult your doctor to know Betaxolol is necessarily used.

Driving Generally Safe

Betaxolol for eye solution has little influence on the ability to drive and use machines. Temporary visual disturbances may affect the ability to drive or use machines. If blurred vision occurs after instillation, the patient must wait until the vision clears before driving or using machinery.

Liver Limited Data

Betaxolol should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Betaxolol may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Limited Data

Betaxolol is probably having potential toxicity towards the nursing baby. Betaxolol can be distributed into breast milk. Limited human data suggests that Betaxolol can produce β blockade in the baby during nursing and having the potential to cause serious undesirable effects in the infant of nursing mother. The baby needs to be monitored if Betaxolol is used during lactation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).