Betaxolol
Glaucoma · Rx
Trade namesBetoptic S
Drug classCardioselective (beta-1) beta-blocker
Strength0.25% suspension (0.5% solution)
AvailabilityRx
Mechanism of actionRelatively beta-1 selective antagonist; less bronchospasm risk than timolol, but also somewhat less IOP lowering. Possible ocular blood-flow / neuroprotective benefit.
Indication / reason for useOpen-angle glaucoma / ocular hypertension, especially with mild pulmonary disease (still use caution).
Usual adult dosing1-2 drops twice daily. Shake the suspension.
PreservativeBAK 0.01%
Contact lensesRemove lenses; reinsert after 15 minutes.
Common / important adverse effectsLess bronchospasm than non-selective agents but not zero; stinging on instillation (more than timolol), the usual systemic beta-1 effects.
Contraindications & cautionsSinus bradycardia, AV block, cardiac failure, cardiogenic shock. Caution in any pulmonary disease.
Pregnancy / lactationAs for beta-blockers generally.
Practice notesChoose when a beta-blocker is desired but airway disease makes timolol unsafe, and even then, confirm with the physician.
Chair-side reference only. Dosing, contraindications and pregnancy guidance here are not exhaustive. Confirm against the current prescribing information and the patient’s full history before prescribing or advising.