Betagan Eye Drops (Levobunolol Hydrochloride) work

Betagan Eye Drops (Levobunolol Hydrochloride) contain the active ingredient levobunolol hydrochloride, which is a type of medicine called a beta-blocker. (NB. Levobunolol eye drops are also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.) Levobunolol is used to reduce the pressure inside the eyeball. It works by blocking beta-receptors in the eye. The pressure within the eyeball is naturally maintained by a continuous flow of liquid called aqueous humour through the eyeball. Aqueous humour is produced by a part of the eye called the ciliary body, and it drains out of the eyeball through channels called the trabecular meshwork. If the outflow of aqueous humour is blocked, the aqueous humour builds up inside the eye, increasing the pressure within the eyeball. This pressure needs to be reduced, as otherwise it can damage the optic nerve and impair vision. Levobunolol blocks beta-receptors that are found on the ciliary body. This action reduces the amount of aqueous humour that is secreted into the eyeball by the ciliary body. Levobunolol also blocks beta-receptors found on the blood vessels that supply the ciliary body. This causes these blood vessels to constrict, which reduces the amount of watery fluid that filters out of the blood vessels to form aqueous humour. The overall effect of levobunolol is to reduce the inflow of aqueous humour into the eyeball, which decreases the pressure within the eye. It is used to treat conditions where there is raised pressure in the eye, such as glaucoma.

What is Betagan Eye Drops?
Betagan Eye Drops containing the active ingredient levobunolol hydrochloride is considered a beta blocker type of medication. It is used to reduce the amount of fluid that is produced in the front part of the eye and reduce eye pressure. It is used to prevent blindness caused by open angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension and other eye conditions.

How is Betagan Eye Drops used? 
Betagan Eye Drops are usually applied 1 to 2 times per day or as directed by a doctor. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage as it will depend on the patient�s condition and their response to the medication. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water prior to applying the eye drops to prevent contamination. To apply the solution, tilt the head back and pull down on your bottom eye lid with a finger to form a pocket. Look up and away from the dropper and apply a single drop into the pocket. Close the eyes and tilt the head down for at least 2 to 3 minutes. Place a finger on the inside corner of the eye and apply gentle pressure to prevent the medication from leaking into the tear duct. Repeat as necessary for additional dosage on affected eyes.

Adverse effects
Patients using Betagan Eye Drops may cause unwanted side effects such as:

• Temporary stinging or burning in eyes
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle weakness
• Mental or mood changes
• Unexplained weight gain
• Vision changes
• Difficulty breathing

Warnings
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.

Betagan Eye Drops is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.

The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed.