Product Description

Betagan (Levobunolol) is used to treat glaucoma or high pressure in the eye. Betagan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


How to use

• Use Betagan eyedrops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Wash your hands before using the eyedrops.
• If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Betagan. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication.
• To use the eye drops:
  • Tilt the head back slightly and pull down on the lower eyelid. Position the dropper above the eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close the eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down the tear duct. If you are using more than 1 drop in the same eye, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops. Repeat the process in the other eye if needed.
• Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. It is a sterile surface. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.
• Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Betagan is in a class of drugs called beta-blockers. Betagan reduces pressure inside the eye. Betagan (levobunolol hydrochloride ophthalmic solution USP) sterile is a noncardioselective beta-adrenoceptor blocking agent for ophthalmic use.


Missed dose

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What should I avoid while using Betagan?

• Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could case an infection in the eye.
• If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Betagan. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication.
• Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Betagan except under the direction of your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Betagan?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Betagan and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
  • an allergic reaction (swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; or hives);
  • an asthma attack (shortness of breath or wheezing); or
  • congestive heart failure (shortness of breath, chest pain, or anxiety).
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Betagan and talk to your doctor if you experience
  • burning and stinging;
  • headache;
  • fainting;
  • fatigue;
  • nausea;
  • depression; or
  • irregular heartbeat, slow heartbeat, or low blood pressure.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Betagan?

• Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Betagan except under the direction of your doctor.
• Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking another beta-blocker by mouth, such as propranolol (Inderal), atenolol (Tenormin), or metoprolol (Lopressor). You may be at risk for increased side effects if you also use Betagan.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Betagan. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Storage

Store Betagan at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.