Before using betaxolol eye drops

Before using betaxolol eye drops make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have heart problems.
• If you suffer from asthma or other breathing problems.
• If you have diabetes.
• If you have any thyroid problems.
• If you wear soft contact lenses.
• If you suffer from dry eyes such as in sicca syndrome.
• If you have myasthenia gravis (a condition causing muscle weakness).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine, including the preservative benzalkonium chloride.
• If you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to use betaxolol eye drops

1. Wash your hands well before use.
2. Remove the cap (or the tip of the unit if you are using a single-use dose unit).
3. Tilt your head back a little and pull the lower lid of your eye out to form a pocket.
4. Hold the container upside down near to your eye. Try not to touch your eye as you do this.
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one drop into your eye. If you think that the drop missed your eye then insert another drop.
6. Close your eye for a minute or two, and press gently on the side of your nose where the corner of your eye meets your nose.
7. Repeat the process in your other eye if you have been asked to use the drops in both eyes.
8. Replace the cap.
9. If you have been supplied a single-use dose unit, throw it away.
10. Wash your hands.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before using these eye drops, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
• If you are using any other eye drops or ointments, leave at least five minutes between each one.
• Do not use soft contact lenses with betaxolol drops.
• Remember to use these drops at regular intervals and try not to miss any doses. They are usually used twice daily.
• If you forget to use the drops, apply them as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case just use the drops when they are next due. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked.
• If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are using betaxolol eye drops.

Can betaxolol eye drops cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to these eye drops, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store betaxolol eye drops

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Eye drops only keep for 4 weeks once the bottle has been opened. After this time make sure you have a fresh supply.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Betaxolol 0.5% Eye Drops, FDC International Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated February 2010, accessed February 2011.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Betoptic® Suspension Single Dose, Alcon Laboratories (U.K) Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated July 2010, accessed February 2011.
• British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)