Generic/trade names
Timolol (Timoptic), levobunolol (Betagan, AKBeta), betaxolol (Betoptic), carteolol (Ocupress)
Who should not use these medications:
- Persons allergic to beta-blockers or sulfites
- Persons with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Persons with severe heart failure
- Persons with dangerously abnormal heart rhythms
Use
These drugs are administered as eyedrops.
Drug or food interactions
Ocular beta-blockers may have additive effects when used with oral beta-blockers. Additive effects occur when
used with other drugs that lower intraocular pressure.
Side effects
Beta-blockers may contain sulfites, which may cause allergic-type reactions. Rarely, use may worsen or cause symptoms
observed with orally administered beta-blockers, such as heart disturbances (abnormal heart rhythm, heart attack, or heart failure),
asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or mental changes (especially in elderly persons).