What it does
Betaxol is a medication used to treat certain eye conditions by reducing pressure in the eyes.
Commonly used for: glaucoma, ocular hypertension
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:43 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:06
About this medicine
Betaxol is a medication used to treat certain eye conditions by reducing pressure in the eyes.
What it treats
- glaucoma
- ocular hypertension
How it works
Betaxol works by decreasing the amount of fluid produced in the eye, which helps lower eye pressure.
Who it's for
Betaxol is for adults and children diagnosed with conditions that cause high pressure in the eyes.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: betaxol
Betaxol is a selective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist primarily used in the management of hypertension and certain cardiac conditions. It functions by blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to decreased heart rate and myocardial contractility, which ultimately lowers blood pressure. It is also used in the treatment of glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Angina pectoris
- Glaucoma
- Intraocular hypertension
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing recommendations.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines based on the condition being treated.
Mechanism of action
Betaxolol selectively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors, leading to a decrease in heart rate and myocardial contractility. This results in reduced cardiac output and lower blood pressure. In ophthalmic use, it reduces aqueous humor production, which lowers intraocular pressure.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic profile of betaxolol includes its role in inhibiting the effects of norepinephrine and epinephrine on beta-1 receptors. This selectivity minimizes the side effects commonly associated with non-selective beta-blockers, such as bronchoconstriction. It has a moderate lipophilicity, which contributes to its ability to penetrate the central nervous system in some cases.
Pharmacokinetics
Betaxolol is absorbed well orally, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 2 to 4 hours after administration. It has a half-life of about 15 to 20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing in most cases. The drug undergoes hepatic metabolism, and about 50% of the drug is excreted unchanged in the urine. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment.
Interactions
- propafenone+betaxolol: Moderate (increases risk of cardiovascular adverse effects)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.