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Betaxon

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease of the major nerve of vision, called the optic nerve. The optic nerve receives light-generated nerve impulses from the retina and transmits these to the brain, where we recognize those electrical signals as vision. Glaucoma is characterized by a particular pattern of progressive damage to the optic nerve that generally begins with a subtle loss of side vision (peripheral vision). If glaucoma is not diagnosed and treated, it can progress to loss of central vision and blindness.

Glaucoma is usually, but not always, associated with elevated pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). Generally, it is this elevated eye pressure that leads to damage of the eye (optic) nerve. In some cases, glaucoma may occur in the presence of normal eye pressure. This form of glaucoma is believed to be caused by poor regulation of blood flow to the optic nerve.

How common is glaucoma?

Worldwide, glaucoma...

Betaxon

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Betaxon Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Betaxon

Generic Name: levobetaxolol ophthalmic (Pronunciation: lee voe bay TAX oh lol)

What is levobetaxolol ophthalmic (Betaxon)?

Levobetaxolol is in a class of drugs called beta-blockers. Levobetaxolol ophthalmic reduces pressure inside the eye.

Levobetaxolol ophthalmic is used to treat glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye.

Levobetaxolol ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of levobetaxolol ophthalmic (Betaxon)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using levobetaxolol ophthalmic and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

  • an allergic reaction (swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; or hives);
  • an asthma attack (shortness of breath, wheezing); or
  • irregular, fast, or slow heartbeats or changes in blood pressure.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use levobetaxolol ophthalmic and talk to your doctor if you experience

  • eye burning or stinging;
  • blurred vision;
  • anxiety;
  • dizziness; or
  • upset stomach.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What is the most important information I should know about levobetaxolol ophthalmic (Betaxon)?

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

Apply light pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down the tear duct.

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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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