Betoptic S is used independently or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure inside the eye. Patients with open-angle glaucoma or other eye diseases are prone to getting high blood pressure in the eyes due to the buildup of fluid. Betoptic S (Betaxolol) is a beta-blocker and works to decrease the amount of fluid made within the eye. It helps prevent serious consequences such as blindness. There is no generic alternative available to Betoptic S drops.

Always use Betoptic S as directed by one’s physician. Wash your hands before applying the eye drops. Remove contact lenses before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. Do not let the dropper tip touch your eye or any other surface.

Shake the eye drop bottle well before the application. Tilt your head back, look up, and pull your lower eyelid down to make a pouch. Holding the dropper directly over your eye, place one drop into the pouch. Look down and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Do this twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. To prevent the medication from draining out, place one finger at the corner of your eye, near your nose, and gently apply pressure. Try not to blink or rub your eyes. Repeat process if your dose is more than one drop or for your other eye.

Do not rinse the dropper. Simply replace the dropper cap after each use. Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye medications. Always use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to be absorbed/make contact with the eye. Use this medication consistently, even if you feel well, to get the most benefits from it. It is important because most glaucoma patients or those with high pressure in the eyes do not feel symptoms of sickness.

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

• Are allergic to Betaxolol or other beta-blockers
• Have any other allergies
• Have a medical condition such as heart rhythm problems or certain serious heart conditions as this medication should be taken with the most precautions
• Have a medical history of diabetes, low blood sugar levels, breathing problems, heart failure etc.

After taking this medication:

• Before having surgery let your doctor and dentist know that you are on this medication
• Tell your doctor if you develop an eye infection or injury or have eye surgery as you could be advised to start a new bottle
• If you have diabetes, as 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.
• You may feel dizzy, which is increased with the use of alcohol or cannabis. Limit 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 or breastfeeding

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

Side effects include but are not limited to:

• Temporary discomfort/stinging of the eye;
• feeling as though something is in the eye;
• itchy, red, or water eyes, blurred vision;
• headache, dizziness, or trouble sleeping

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

• eye pain, swelling, or discharge;
• increased sensitivity to light or other vision changes;
• muscles weakness or hair loss;
• swollen ankles or feet;
• blue fingers, toes, feet/cold feet;
• sudden mental/mood changes

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

Q: What is Betoptic S used for?

A: Betoptic S is used to treat the high blood pressure in the eye that can occur in those with glaucoma or other reasons causing high blood pressure in the eye.

Q: Does Betoptic S have a generic available?

A: No, as of now Betoptic S does not have a generic alternative

Q: What if I accidentally swallow this medication?

A: This drug could be dangerous if swallowed. If someone is having serious symptoms such as trouble breathing after having contact with Betoptic S, call for emergency medical help.