Beta-Blockers

• Generic/trade names: Timolol (Timoptic), levobunolol (Betagan, AKBeta), betaxolol (Betoptic), carteolol (Ocupress)
  
  
• How beta-blockers work: These drugs lower intraocular pressure by reducing the amount of aqueous humor produced.
  
  
• Who should not use these medications
  
  
  • Persons allergic to beta-blockers or sulfites
    
    
  • Persons with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    
    
  • Persons with severe heart failure
    
    
  • Persons with dangerously abnormal heart rhythms

• Use: These drugs are administered as eyedrops.
  
  
• Drug or food interactions: Ocular beta-blockers may have additive effects when used with oral beta-blockers. Additive effects occur when used with other drugs that lower intraocular pressure.
  
  
• Side effects: Beta-blockers may contain sulfites, which may cause allergic-type reactions. Rarely, use may worsen or cause symptoms observed with orally administered beta-blockers, such as heart disturbances (abnormal heart rhythm, heart attack, or heart failure), asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or mental changes (especially in elderly persons).