Betaxon Side Effects

Generic name: levobetaxolol ophthalmic

Note: This document contains side effect information about levobetaxolol ophthalmic. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Betaxon.

Applies to levobetaxolol ophthalmic: ophthalmic suspension.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using levobetaxolol ophthalmic 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, wheezing); or

• irregular, fast, or slow heartbeats or changes in blood pressure.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use levobetaxolol ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Betaxon) and talk to your doctor if you experience

• eye burning or stinging;

• blurred vision;

• anxiety;

• dizziness; or

• upset stomach.

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.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to levobetaxolol ophthalmic: ophthalmic suspension.

General

Although systemic adverse events have been only infrequently reported, levobetaxolol ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Betaxon) drops may be absorbed systemically and side effects similar to systemically administered beta-blockers such as severe respiratory or cardiac reactions have been experienced.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included bradycardia, heart block, hypotension, hypertension, tachycardia, and vascular anomaly in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have been related to the ability of levobetaxolol to inhibit bronchodilation, which may be important in some patients with reversible airway disease, including asthma or severe obstructive lung disease. Asthmatic attacks, bronchospasm, pulmonary distress, bronchitis, dyspnea, pharyngitis, pneumonia, rhinitis, and sinusitis have been reported.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included constipation and dyspepsia in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Endocrine

Endocrine side effects have included diabetes and hypothyroidism in less than 2% of patients, and thyrotoxicosis.^[Ref]

Metabolic

Metabolic side effects have included gout, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperlipidemia in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Musculoskeletal side effects have included arthritis, tendonitis, and exacerbation of myasthenia gravis in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included alopecia, dermatitis, and psoriasis in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have included dizziness, anxiety, hypertonia, and vertigo in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects have included breast abscess and cystitis in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Other

Other side effects that have been attributed to levobetaxolol ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Betaxon) have included accidental injury, ear pain, otitis media, tinnitus, and infection in less than 2% of patients.^[Ref]

Ocular

Ocular side effects have included transient discomfort and pain after instillation (11%), transient blurred vision (2%), cataracts (<2%), and vitreous disorders (<2%).^[Ref]

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

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