BETOPTIC S (BETAXOLOL)

Betoptic S Helps Control Open Angle Glaucoma

Were you surprised by your ophthalmologist with a diagnosis of open angle glaucoma? The symptoms of glaucoma may be something you just shrugged off as being tired, getting older, or working in front of a computer screen all day. Once you realize that your dry, itchy, red-rimmed eyes that water or burn should be examined by your eye doctor, damage may already have occurred.

There is no cure for glaucoma, only treatment to help control this condition. Betoptic S (suspension) may be prescribed if you have open-angle glaucoma, a slow developing disease that can rob you of your vision unless detected early, usually through a routine eye exam. Further testing will be done to monitor the pressure in your eye which can damage your optic nerve if left untreated.

Reduce Aqueous Humor Production

Betoptic S is a selective beta receptor blocker medicine, which means that it will only act on the beta receptors in your eyes that facilitate aqueous humor production and nowhere else in your body. Once Betoptic S is instilled as directed, close your eye and apply pressure with a clean finger to the inside corner of your eye so Betoptic S cannot enter your tear ducts and cause side effects elsewhere.

The active ingredient in Betoptic S is Betaxolol which blocks the beta receptors that signal production of intraocular fluid in the front chamber of your eye. This helps reduce the pressure in your eyes from too much fluid pressing on your optic nerve.

Conditions Treated by Betoptic S

High intraocular pressure, also known as ocular hypertension is one of the causes of glaucoma. This can result when the ciliary body found behind your iris produces excess fluid called aqueous humor. This fluid fills the front chamber of your eye and drains through the trabecular meshwork, a structure in the border of your anterior chamber. This is usually a steady flow and drain system that keeps the pressure in your eye at a safe level.

If the ciliary body starts producing too much fluid or there is inadequate drainage of the fluid, then pressure can build and press on your optic nerve causing permanent damage. Some medications may also be to blame for ocular hypertension.

Before Betoptic S is Prescribed

Ask your doctor about the safety of instilling Betoptic S if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. To determine if Betoptic S is right for you, tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and any OTC or Rx drugs you take, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Betoptic S Precautions

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor how long you should wait after instilling Betoptic S before you can put the lenses back in. You should not drive, operate machinery, or perform any task that may be risky if your vision is impaired. If you are scheduled for any surgical or dental procedure, be sure you inform the medical staff that you are using Betoptic S for ocular hypertension or glaucoma.

Possible Side Effects of Betoptic S

• Dry eyes
• Sensation of something in your eye
• Mild burning or stinging after instilling medication