Drug
Betaxolol
Pronounced
"be-TAX-oh-lol"
Uses
This medication is used to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Betaxolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta blockers. It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body such as epinephrine that affect the heart and blood vessels. This results in a lowering of the heart rate and blood pressure.
Warning
If you have chest pain (angina) or have heart disease (such as coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, high blood pressure), do not stop using this drug without first consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this drug, you must gradually decrease your dose according to your doctor's instructions.
When gradually stopping this medication, it is recommended that you temporarily limit physical activity to decrease the work on the heart. Get medical help right away if you develop: worsening chest pain, tightness/pressure in the chest, chest pain spreading to the jaw/neck/arm, sweating, trouble breathing, or fast/irregular heartbeat.
How to Use This Medication
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take several months before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).