Medicines and Drugs
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Betaxolol HCl ophthalmic
Drug Name Betaxolol HCl ophthalmic
Betaxolol HCl ophthalmic Drug Category BETAXOLOL - OPHTHALMIC SUSPENSION
Betaxolol HCl ophthalmic Drug Information
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
BETAXOLOL - OPHTHALMIC SUSPENSION
(bet-AX-oh-lol, off-THAL-mick)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Betoptic S
USES: This medication is used to reduce pressure in the eye caused by glaucoma or other eye conditions.
HOW TO USE: To instill eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye. Shake bottle well before using. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. For maximum effect, this medication must be used routinely as prescribed.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may temporarily sting your eyes for a minute or two when you first use it. If stinging persists or becomes bothersome, inform your doctor. Vision may be temporarily blurred or unstable after applying drops. Use caution driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following effects: dizziness, drowsiness, depression, breathing difficulties, irregular or slow heartbeat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: diabetes, thyroid disorders, muscle weakness disorders, breathing problems, heart problems, any allergies. If you are scheduled for surgery that requires anesthesia, tell the doctor treating you that you use this medication. Betaxolol should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if betaxolol is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially: diuretics, cold preparations and nasal decongestants, reserpine, heart medicine, high blood pressure medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include slowing of heart rate, dizziness, and fainting.
NOTES: Discard the solution if it turns brown.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight. Avoid freezing.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).