Betaxolol Hydrochloride(beh tax’ oh lol)
Ophthalmic: Betoptic S
Oral: Kerlone
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Drug Classes
Antiglaucoma drug
Antihypertensive
Beta1-selective adrenergic blocker
Therapeutic Actions
Blocks beta-adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system in the heart and juxtaglomerular apparatus (kidneys), decreasing the excitability of the heart, decreasing cardiac output and oxygen consumption, decreasing the release of renin from the kidneys, and lowering BP. Decreases IOP by decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor.
Indications
Oral: Hypertension, used alone or with other antihypertensive agents, particularly thiazide-type diuretics
Ophthalmic: Treatment of ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma alone or in combination with other antiglaucoma drugs
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with sinus bradycardia, second- or third-degree heart block, cardiogenic shock, heart failure.
Use cautiously with renal failure, diabetes, or thyrotoxicosis (betaxolol masks the cardiac signs of hypoglycemia and thyrotoxicosis), lactation, pregnancy.
Available Forms
Tablets—10, 20 mg; ophthalmic solution (0.5%)—5.6 mg/mL; ophthalmic suspension (0.25%)—2.8 mg/mL
Dosages
Adults
Oral
Initially, 10 mg PO daily, alone or added to diuretic therapy. Full antihypertensive effect is usually seen in 7–14 days. If desired response is not achieved, dose may be doubled.
Ophthalmic
One or two drops bid to affected eye or eyes.
Pediatric patients
Safety and efficacy not established.
Geriatric patients or patients with severe renal impairment; patients undergoing dialysis
Oral
Consider reducing initial dose to 5 mg PO daily.
