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Betaxolol

Beta Blocker · Antiglaucoma agent

Beta BlockerAntiglaucoma agentATC S01ED02
CDSCO approvedSchedule HATC S01ED02
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
12 major
SEVERE in our sources
PREGNANCY
Beta-blockers may cause intra-uterine
FDA category + note
Top interactionssee all 12
  • AdrenalineSevereTextbookKDT 7e · p133
  • AmilorideSevereTextbookKDT 7e
  • SofosbuvirSevereTextbookHarrison 22e · unknown
  • AminophyllineSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Betaxolol is a β1-selective adrenergic receptor antagonist that competitively blocks β1-adrenoceptors, primarily in the heart. This action inhibits the Gs protein-mediated increase in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) typically induced by catecholamines. The clinical consequence is a reduction in heart rate and myocardial contractility, leading to a decrease in cardiac output and blood pressure.

Indications

GlaucomaOcular hypertensionChronic open-angle glaucomaSuspected chronic open-angle glaucomahypertensionangina pectorisGlaucoma (topical)

Dosing

Adult
administration by intravenous injection, excessive bradycardia can occur and may be countered with intravenous injection of atropine sulfate. Overdose Therapeutic overdosages with beta-blockers may cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and possibly syncope as a result of bradycardia and hypotension; heart failure may be precipitated or exacerbated.…

Pharmacokinetics

Half-life
14 to 22 h
Bioavailability
high

Contraindications

  • abrupt discontinuation (withdrawal syndrome)

Side effects

Common
mild and transient side effectsTransient stinging (ocular)Burning (ocular)Less bronchopulmonary, cardiac, central and metabolic side effects compared to nonselective beta blockers
Serious
  • life-threatening bradyarrhythmias (with AV conduction defects or other drugs)
  • exacerbation of angina (abrupt discontinuation)
  • increased risk of sudden death (abrupt discontinuation)
  • blunted recognition/delayed recovery from hypoglycemia

Pregnancy & lactation

Pregnancy

Beta-blockers may cause intra-uterine

Drug interactions

Adrenaline
Severe
Textbook

Marked rise in BP.

Adrenaline should not be given to patients receiving β blockers.

Source: KDT 7e · p133

Amiloride
Severe
Textbook

Hyperkalaemia more likely.

Source: KDT 7e

Sofosbuvir
Severe
Textbook

Severe bradycardia.

Extreme caution advised if amiodarone is co-administered with sofosbuvir and a beta blocker.

Source: Harrison 22e · unknown

Aminophylline
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: antagonism

Source: DDInter

Atazanavir
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Ceritinib
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Clonidine
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Diltiazem
Severe
Database

Increased propensity for AV block, severe bradycardia, and decreased left ventricular function.

Avoid concurrent administration. The concurrent administration of diltiazem with a beta blocker is contraindicated.

Source: DDInter

Disopyramide
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Dolasetron
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Dyphylline
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: antagonism

Source: DDInter

Fingolimod
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Related guidelines

Other Beta Blocker drugs

Ask House about Betaxolol

Continue into a citation-backed clinical answer with the drug context already attached.

Sources: KD Tripathi 7e, Goodman & Gilman 14e, BNF·Verified: 2026-05-13 · House clinical team