Levobunolol (Betagan Luquifilm)

• Type of Drug: Beta-adrenergic-blocking agent.
• Prescribed for: Glaucoma.

Levobunolol (Betagan Luquifilm) General Information

Levobunolol is one of several beta-adrenergic-blocking drugs, or beta blockers, which interfere with the action of a specific part of the nervous system. Beta receptors are found ail over the body and affect many body functions, which accounts for the usefulness of beta blockers against a wide variety of conditions.

When applied to the eye, Levobunolol reduces fluid pressure inside the eye by reducing the production of eye fluids and slightly increasing the rate at which fluids flow through and leave the eye, Beta blockers produce a greater drop in eye pressure than either Pilocarpine or Epinephrine, but may be combined with these or other drugs to produce a more pronounced drop in eye pressure.

Betaxolol may be used by people who cannot use Levobunolol because of the possible effect of Levobunolol on heart or lung function.

Levobunolol (Betagan Luquifilm) Cautions and Warnings

Be cautious about taking Levobunolol eyedrops if you have asthma, severe heart failure. Slow heart rate, or heart block because small amounts of the drug may be absorbed into your bloodstream and can aggravate these conditions.

Beta blockers, including Levobunolol, may mask the signs of an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

Possible Side Effects

Levobunolol side effects are usually mild, relatively uncommon, develop early in the course of treatment, and are rarely a reason to stop taking the medication.

Drug Interactions

• If you take other glaucoma eye medicines, separate them from Levobunolol to avoid physically mixing them. Small amounts of Levobunolol are absorbed into the general circulation and may interact with some of the same drugs as beta blockers taken by mouth, but this is unlikely.

Food Interactions

None known.

Usual Dose

One drop in the affected eye 1 or 2 times per day.

Overdosage

Symptoms of Levobunolol overdose are changes in heartbeat (unusually slow, unusually fast, or irregular), severe dizziness or fainting, difficulty breathing, bluish-colored fingernails or palms of the hands, and seizures. Overdose is highly unlikely. Call your local poison control center or hospital emergency room for more information. ALWAYS bring the medicine bottle with you.

Levobunolol (Betagan Luquifilm) Special Information

Call your doctor about the following side effects only if they persist or are bothersome: anxiety, diarrhea, constipation, sexual impotence, mild dizziness, headache, itching, nausea or vomiting, nightmares or vivid dreams, upset stomach, trouble sleeping, stuffed nose, frequent urination, unusual tiredness, or weakness.

To administer the eyedrops, lie down or tilt your head backward and look at the ceiling. Hold the dropper above your eye and drop the medicine inside your lower lid while looking up. To prevent possible infection, don’t allow the dropper to touch your fingers, eyelids, or any surface. Release the lower lid and keep your eye open. Don’t blink for about 30 seconds. Press gently on the bridge of your nose at the inside corner of your eye for about 1 minute. This will help -circulate the medicine around your eye. Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eyedrops.

If you forget to take a dose of Levobunolol eyedrops, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Levobunolol (Betagan Luquifilm) Special Populations

Pregnancy/Breast-feeding
Levobunoioi may cross into the blood circulation of the developing fetus, but the amount of drug that could be absorbed from eyedrops is negligible.
Nursing mothers should watch their infants for any drug-related effects, although the chances of anything happening are small.

Seniors
Seniors may be more likely to suffer drug-related effects, should the eyedrops be absorbed into the bloodstream.