Carteolol
Carteolol is a non-selective beta-blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of glaucoma. It works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart and eyes, reducing heart rate, blood pressure, and intraocular pressure. Available in both oral and ophthalmic formulations, it is commonly prescribed when standard first-line treatments are insufficient.
Carteolol is a beta-blocker used to lower blood pressure and treat glaucoma by reducing heart rate and eye pressure.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C07AA15
- RxNorm
- 2116
- Generic
- Carteolol
- Class
- atc-c07
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral, ophthalmic
- Forms
- tablet, solution
- 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.
Carteolol is primarily used to treat essential hypertension and chronic open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by a healthcare provider.
As a non-selective beta-blocker, Carteolol blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors. In the heart, this reduces heart rate and cardiac output to lower blood pressure. In the eye, it decreases aqueous humor production, thereby reducing intraocular pressure.
Carteolol should be used with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, heart failure, or diabetes, as beta-blockers may worsen these conditions. Do not discontinue abruptly. When using eye drops, apply pressure to the tear duct to minimize systemic absorption. Common side effects may include fatigue, bradycardia, and cold extremities.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy