Levobunolol Hydrochloride Ophthalmic drops, ... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Levobunolol Hydrochloride Ophthalmic drops, solution

Brand name(s):

Akbeta, Betagan, Betagan C-Cap, Levobunolol, Levobunolol Hydrochloride, Ophthalmic

What is this medicine?

LEVOBUNOLOL (lee voe BYOO noe lole) is used in the eye to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes
• history of heart attack or heart disease
• lung disease like asthma of emphysema
• thyroid disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to levobunolol, other beta blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, sulfites, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Remove contact lenses. Shake well before use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops and apply gentle finger pressure to the inner corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• digoxin
• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
• medicines for high blood pressure
• phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine

Do not use other eye products with this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you should continue to use this medicine if you injure your eyes, get an eye infection, or need eye surgery.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor or health care professional if you can wear your lenses while you are using this medicine.

Wear dark glasses if this medicine makes your eyes more sensitive to light.