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Brand Names: Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol

Generic Name: levobunolol ophthalmic (Pronunciation: lee voe BYOO noe lole)

• What is levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What are the possible side effects of levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What is the most important information I should know about levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• How should I use levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What happens if I overdose (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What should I avoid while using levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• What other drugs will affect levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?

Levobunolol is a beta-blocker that reduces pressure inside the eye.

Levobunolol ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat open-angle glaucoma and other causes of high pressure inside the eye.

Levobunolol ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• severe swelling, itching, burning, redness, pain, or discomfort in or around your eye;
• drainage, crusting, or oozing of your eyes or eyelids;
• bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing);
• slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop);
• feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
• swelling, rapid weight gain; or
• severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild burning, stinging, itching, or discomfort of your eyes;
• blurred vision;
• mildly swollen or puffy eyes;
• headache, dizziness, spinning sensation;
• depression, confusion, tired feeling;
• muscle weakness;
• mild skin rash or itching; or
• nausea, diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about levobunolol ophthalmic (Akbeta, Betagan, Levobunolol)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to levobunolol, or if you have asthma, or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), slow heartbeats, or a heart condition called "AV block."

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have breathing problems such as bronchitis or emphysema, a history of heart disease or congestive heart failure, diabetes, history of stroke, blood clot, or circulation problems, a thyroid disorder, or a muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis.

Do not allow the dropper to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Levobunolol ophthalmic is sometimes given together with other eye medications. Do not use any other eye medication unless your doctor has prescribed it for you. If you use another eye medication, use it at least 10 minutes before or after using levobunolol ophthalmic. Do not use the medications at the same time.

Levobunolol ophthalmic can cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.

Do not use this medication while you are wearing contact lenses. Levobunolol ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using levobunolol before putting your contact lenses in.

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