Why is Betoptic prescribed?
Betoptic Ophthalmic Solution and Betoptic S Ophthalmic Suspension contain a medication that lowers internal eye pressure and is used to treat open-angle glaucoma (high pressure of the fluid in the eye).
Most important fact about Betoptic
Although Betoptic, a type of drug called a beta blocker, is applied directly to the eye, it may be absorbed into the bloodstream. Because it may have effects in other parts of the body, you should use Betoptic cautiously if you have diabetes, asthma or other respiratory diseases, or decreased heart function.
How should you use Betoptic?
Use Betoptic exactly as prescribed. You may need to use other medications at the same time.
Betoptic S Suspension should be shaken well before each dose.
Administer Betoptic as follows:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pocket between your eye and eyelid.
3. Hold the bottle on the bridge of your nose or on your forehead.
4. Do not touch the applicator tip to any surface, including your eye.
5. Tilt your head back and squeeze the medication into your eye.
6. Close your eyes gently.
7. Keep your eyes closed for 1 to 2 minutes.
8. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes before using any other eyedrops.
9. Do not rinse the dropper.
--If you miss a dose...
Use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Betoptic.
Side effects may include: Temporary eye discomfort
Why should Betoptic not be prescribed?
Do not use Betoptic if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to it.
People with certain heart conditions should not use Betoptic.
Special warnings about Betoptic
Before you use Betoptic, tell your doctor if you have any of the following:

Asthma
Diabetes
Heart disease
Thyroid disease
If you are having surgery, your doctor may advise you to gradually stop using Betoptic before you undergo general anesthesia.
This drug may lose some of its effectiveness for glaucoma after you have been taking it a long time.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Betoptic
If Betoptic is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Betoptic with the following:

Drugs that alter mood, such as Nardil and Elavil
Oral beta blockers such as Inderal and Tenormin
Reserpine (Serpasil)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Betoptic during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Betoptic may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Betoptic is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with Betoptic is finished.
Recommended dosage
Your doctor may have you take another medication with Betoptic or Betoptic-S.
ADULTS
Betoptic
The usual recommended dose is 1 to 2 drops of Betoptic in the affected eye(s) twice daily.
Betoptic S
The usual recommended dose is 1 to 2 drops of Betoptic S in the affected eye(s) twice daily.
Overdosage
Any medication used in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Betoptic, seek medical attention immediately.
• With an oral beta blocker, symptoms of overdose might include:
Heart failure, low blood pressure, slow heartbeat