Levobunolol Ophthalmic
Conditions Treated
Ophthalmic levobunolol is used to treat glaucoma, a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision. Levobunolol is in a class of medications called beta blockers. It works by decreasing the pressure in the eye.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Levobunolol eye drops may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- eye stinging or burning
- discomfort, redness, or itching of the eye
- swelling of the eyelids
- decreased vision
Some side effects may be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using the eye drops and call your doctor immediately:
- difficulty breathing
- wheezing
- slow or irregular heartbeat
- faintness
- swelling of the feet and legs
- sudden weight gain
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Ophthalmic levobunolol comes as a solution (liquid) to instill in the eyes. Levobunolol eye drops are usually instilled once or twice a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use levobunolol eye drops exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of them or use them more often than prescribed by your doctor. Levobunolol eye drops control glaucoma but do not cure it. Continue to use levobunolol eye drops even if you feel well. Do not stop using levobunolol eye drops without talking to your doctor. To instill the eye drops, follow these steps:
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before using levobunolol eye drops, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to levobunolol, other beta blockers, sulfites, or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other eye medications, beta blockers, such as atenolol (Tenormin), carteolol (Cartrol), labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate), metoprolol (Lopressor), nadolol (Corgard), propranolol (Inderal), sotalol (Betapace), or timolol (Blocadren); quinidine (Quinidex, Quinaglute Dura-Tabs); verapamil (Calan, Isoptin); and vitamins. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had thyroid, heart, or lung disease; congestive heart failure; or diabetes. if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using levobunolol eye drops. if you are using another topical eye medication, instill it at least 10 minutes before or after you instill levobunolol eye drops.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- AKBeta®
- Betagan®
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
Instill the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not instill a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will order certain eye tests to check your response to levobunolol eye drops. Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.