What is Betaxolol used for?
Betaxolol is used to treat open-angle glaucoma. This eye drops belongs to a group of medicines called beta-blockers that lower internal eye pressure, which in turn reduces the risk of optic nerve damage and vision loss. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What is the recommended dosage of Betaxolol?
The dosage of Betaxolol prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label. The following dosage information includes the common dose of Betaxolol. If your dose is different, do not follow the dosage described below unless your physician has approved.
The usual dose of Betaxolol is 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye twice a day. Before application of the eye drops, wash your hands. After its application, close your eyes gently for 1 to 2 minutes.
What if you miss a dose of Betaxolol?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to use Betaxolol medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.
What if you overdose on Betaxolol?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Betaxolol, seek medical attention immediately. Some of the overdose symptoms of this drug are slow heartbeat, fainting, and dizziness.
What other drugs could interact with Betaxolol?
- Bupivacaine
- Clonidine
- Diltiazem
- Disopyramide
- Glucagon
- Ketanserin
- Lithium
- Nifedipine
- Pyridostigmine
- Quinazolines
- Selegiline
- Verapamil
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Betaxolol.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Betaxolol, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Betaxolol can interact with drugs for high blood pressure, anticholinesterases, certain diabetes drugs, certain psychiatric drugs, and oral beta-blockers.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the side effects of Betaxolol?
Like other medicines, Betaxolol can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Betaxolol are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Betaxolol cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Betaxolol develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Betaxolol can cause side effects such as redness, blurred vision, burning, stinging, itching, tearing, dry eyes, and eye pain. Some of the serious side effects of betaxol oral doses are trouble breathing, chest tightness, slurred speech, fainting, and confusion. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are using Betaxolol.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Betaxolol?
Is it possible for me to use Betaxolol with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I use Betaxolol?
What are the possible drug interactions of Betaxolol?
How will Betaxolol work in my body?
How should Betaxolol be used?
How to reduce the risk of Betaxolol drug interactions and side effects?
Note
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. Before using Betaxolol, inform your doctor if you have heart problems, diabetes, and breathing problems. Also inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. While using this medication, limit alcoholic beverages. As Betaxolol may cause dizziness, do not drive or perform any activity that requires alertness.