Betoptic
Betoptic is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and glaucoma. It is a beta blocker that works by blocking the action of certain chemicals in the body. This type of medication is also used to treat conditions such as heart failure, migraine headaches, and tremors. Betoptic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Do not use Betoptic if you are allergic to betaxolol, or if you have asthma, bronchospasm, heart failure, or a slow heart rate. To make sure Betoptic is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- kidney disease;
- liver disease;
- a heart rhythm disorder;
- coronary artery disease;
- a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot; or
- if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Betaxolol may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using Betoptic.
Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.
Do not use Betoptic if you are allergic to betaxolol, or if you have:
- asthma;
- bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath);
- heart failure; or
- a slow heart rate.
To make sure Betoptic is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- kidney disease;
- liver disease;
- a heart rhythm disorder;
- coronary artery disease;
- a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot; or
- if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Betaxolol may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using Betoptic.
Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether Betoptic will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether betaxolol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from this medicine. Betaxolol is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How to use BetopticUse Betoptic exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Betoptic is usually given 3 times per day. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.
Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid to create a small opening. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.
Gently press your finger to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
Wait at least 15 minutes before using any other eye drops that your doctor has prescribed.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.
Shake the betaxolol eye drops well just before each use. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Betoptic dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Glaucoma -- Open Angle:
- Initial dose: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 3 times a day.
- Maintenance: After the first week, the dose may be increased to 2 drops 3 times a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Hypertension:
- Initial dose: 10 mg orally 2 times a day.
- Maintenance: After the first week, the dose may be increased to 20 mg 2 times a day.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Glaucoma -- Open Angle:
- 6 years or older:
Initial dose: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 3 times a day.
Comments:
- The initial dose should be increased gradually as needed and tolerated.
Uses:
- Treatment of open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath;
- slow or uneven heart rate;
- feeling light-headed, fainting;
- swelling in your ankles or feet;
