Betaxolol
Betaxolol is a cardioselective beta-1 blocker used primarily to treat hypertension and certain eye conditions like glaucoma. Unlike non-selective beta-blockers, it targets primarily the heart with minimal effect on the lungs and peripheral blood vessels.
A heart-selective beta-blocker for managing high blood pressure and eye pressure.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C07AB05
- RxNorm
- 1520
- Generic
- Betaxolol
- Class
- atc-c07
- Brands
- Betoptic S
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- ophthalmic, oral
- Forms
- suspension, solution, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
discontinue if pregnancy detected or avoid use unless essential
regular fetal growth monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid - discontinue before delivery
discontinue at least 48-72 hours before delivery to reduce neonatal effects
neonatal monitoring for bradycardia and hypoglycemia
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid during breastfeeding
do not breastfeed while taking betaxolol - drug excreted in breast milk
monitor infant for signs of beta-blockade
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderlyreduce dose - start at lowest effective dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity and reduced clearance
monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12not recommended for pediatric use
betaxolol is not approved for use in children - insufficient safety data
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentreduce dose by 50%
use lower dose and monitor renal function closely
monitor renal function and drug levels if available
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severe hepatic impairmentreduce dose by 50%
use with caution - betaxolol undergoes hepatic metabolism
monitor liver function and clinical response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Pharmacological classification of Betaxolol
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication for Betoptic S
FDA approval year
Betoptic S ophthalmic formulation approval
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacological action
Betaxolol is primarily prescribed for hypertension (high blood pressure) and glaucoma or ocular hypertension (elevated pressure inside the eye). It may also be used in some cases for angina (chest pain) and cardiac arrhythmias.
Betaxolol works by selectively blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate and the force of heart contractions. This decreases cardiac output and blood pressure. As an eye drop, it reduces fluid production within the eye, lowering intraocular pressure.
May cause bradycardia, fatigue, or dizziness. Should not be stopped abruptly as this can worsen heart conditions. Caution is advised in patients with asthma or COPD, as even selective beta-blockers may affect breathing in high doses. Inform your doctor of all medications before use, as drug interactions are possible.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy