Betopic (Betaxolol) eye drops are used alone or with other medications to help treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma or other eye diseases, such as ocular hypertension. The term ocular hypertension generally refers to any situation in which the pressure level inside of the eye, known as intraocular pressure, is higher than usual.

Lowering high pressure inside the eye can help to prevent blindness. Betaxolol is part of a class of drugs known as beta blockers and it works by lowering the amount of fluid that is produced within the eye.

Always use Betaxolol as directed by one’s physician.

Before applying eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid any possible contamination, do not touch the dropper end, let it touch your eye or let it touch any other surface. If you're wearing contact lenses, remove them prior to using the eye drops. Wait for at least 15 minutes after using the medication to reinsert your contact lenses.

To use the eye drops, tilt your head backward, look up, and pull down the lower lid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly overtop of your eye and place the directed amount of drops into the pouch, usually twice daily or as instructed by your doctor. Look down and gently shut your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place a finger at the inner corner of your eye, near your nose, and apply light pressure. This will help prevent the medication from draining. Try not to blink and avoid rubbing your eye.

Repeat these steps for your second eye if so instructed by your doctor or if your dose is for more than 1 drop. Do not rinse the dropper, and be sure to replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using a different kind of eye medication, wait for at least ten minutes before using the other medications. Use this medication regularly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit from it.

To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. It is important to continue using this medication even if you feel better. Most people with glaucoma or high pressure in their eyes don't feel sick.

Prior to using the medication, consult with your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to Betaxolol, other beta-blockers, or have any other allergies
• Have a medical history of heart rhythm problems, blood circulation problems, etc.

After taking this medication:

• Before having surgery let your doctor and dentist know that you are on this medication
• If you have diabetes, the fast/increased heart rate that you experience when your blood sugar level falls too low may be prevented but you may still feel other symptoms such as dizziness or sweating.
• Tell your doctor right away if you experience symptoms of high blood pressure
• You may feel dizzy, which is increased with the use of alcohol or cannabis. Limit the use of machinery or other activities requiring alertness. Limit alcoholic beverages and let your doctor know if you use cannabis.
• Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, have recently given birth, or are breastfeeding
• If you develop an eye injury or infection during the course of your treatment, talk to your doctor about whether you should continue using the same bottle of medicaiton. They may advise you to switch to a new bottle.

If your condition doesn’t improve or worsens, let your physician know immediately.

Side effects include but are not limited to:

• Watery/dry/itchy/red eyes

• Temporary stinging/discomfort of the eye, feeling as if something is in the eye

• Blurred vision

• Headache, trouble sleeping, or dizziness

Talk to your doctor if these side effects persis or worsen.

Immediately talk to your doctor if you experience any of these more serious side effects:

• Eye pain, swelling, discharge

• Vision chnages or increased sensitivity to light

• Irregular or slow heartbeat

• Sudden mental or mood changes such as depression or confusion

• Swelling of the ankles or feet

• Blue fingers, toes, or cold hands of feet

• Muscle weakness or general tiredness

Stop taking Betaxolol and get immediate medical help if you experience any of these rarer symptoms:

• Trouble breathing, chest pain

• Sudden unexplained weight gain

• Weakness in one side of the body or slurred speach

• Persistant dizziness, confusion, or fainting.

If any of these effects persist or worsen immediately tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Q: What is Betaxolol prescribed for?

A: Betaxolol is commonly prescribed to those with high blood pressure. Consult with your doctor to find out if it is the right drug for you.

Q: If my heart cannot pump blood properly is this medication right for me?

A: You should NOT be using Betaxolol if you have a serious heart condition such as not being able to pump blood properly, having slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint before, or uncontrolled heart failure etc.

Q: If I have been on this medication near my delivery date will my newborn experience any symptoms?

A: Newborns whose mothers were using this drug during pregnancy and near the delivery date may have problems such as low blood pressure, low heart rate or a low birth rate. These babies may require special medical monitoring.

Q: Are there any precautions I should take as an elderly person before taking Betaxolol?

A: Since this medication is removed by the kidneys, elders may be at a greater risk for a slowed heartbeat while on this drug.