Retinal - Macular Disorders

Beta-blocker Eye Drops
(Timoptic, Betoptic, Betagan, Istalol, Cosopt, Combigan)

by Scott Pautler, MD

What are Beta-blocker Eye Drops?

Beta-blocker eye drops are sometimes prescribed to lower the pressure in the eye, which might be elevated from glaucoma or following surgery. Lowering the pressure decreases the chance of damage to the eye. These eye drops are very effective and may be used as long as pressure control is needed.

What side effects might be encountered?

In some patients, these drops can cause stinging, redness, or irritation. These are not allergic reactions, but should be reported to the doctor if they become bothersome. Serious side effects occur rarely. Be sure to report unexplained loss of consciousness, asthma, wheezing, shortness of breath, slow heart rate (less than 55 beats per minute), or irregular heart rate.

How do I properly use this medicine?

Be sure your hands are clean. While looking up with head tilted back, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye with one finger and place one-drop of medicine inside the lower lid onto the eye. Gently close the eye without rapid blinking and keep the eye closed for a minute or two while pressing on the inner corner of your closed eyelids with your index finger. This allows the medicine to be absorbed into the eye and keeps the medicine from going down your throat minimizing side effects. Try to use this medicine on schedule as missing an eye drop may result in damage to your eye from high pressure.