Medications
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BETA BLOCKERS
Commonly Used Drugs
Timolol (Timoptic, Betimol)
Carteolol (Ocupress)
Betaxolol (Betoptic)
Metipranolol (OptiPranolol)
Levobunolol (Betagan)
Uses of This Medicine
Beta blockers are used to lower eye pressure in eyes with glaucoma. They may be used alone or in combination with other medications. Beta blockers lower eye pressure by reducing the production of aqueous (eye fluid).
Before Using This Medicine
Be sure to tell your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to any medications
- Have any medical problems particularly diabetes, heart disease, abnormal blood pressure, asthma, or depression
- Are taking any other prescription or non-prescription medications
- Are using contact lenses
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Have any other health problems
The usual dose is 1 drop in the effected eye once or twice daily. Use this medication only as directed by your doctor. Do not try to catch up on missed doses by applying more than one dose at a time.
Side Effects
(This is a list of the most common side effects; for a complete list, see the insert provided with your medication)
The most frequent side effects are temporary stinging, burning and blurred vision upon instillation. Most patients experience a slight decrease in heart rate and may have a decrease in blood pressure. Patients with lung or breathing problems may have shortness of breath. Other side effects include fatigue, drowsiness, inability to exercise, impotence, and depression.
Special Precautions
Patients with diabetes should closely monitor their blood sugar when using these medicines, since symptoms of low blood sugar may be masked. Patients with slow heart rate or low blood pressure may experience dizziness or fainting spells.
You must keep your regularly scheduled appointment with your eye doctor so the effect of this medicine can be monitored. All medicines should be taken exactly as prescribed. If you experience any problems with this medication, call your doctor immediately.
