Betaxolol
**Betaxolol** is a topical ophthalmic medication primarily used for the management of **glaucoma** in dogs. It is a cardioselective (beta-1) beta-blocker that reduces intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humour. It can be used as a monotherapy or in combination with other topical anti-glaucoma medications, such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. It is also utilized prophylactically in the unaffected eye of dogs presenting with unilateral primary closed-angle glaucoma. > **Clinical Warning:** Although applied topically, systemic absorption can occur. Use with extreme caution or avoid in patients with uncontrolled heart failure or asthma.
Mecanismo: Betaxolol acts as a **beta-1 selective beta-blocker**. It works by blocking **beta-adrenoreceptors** in the ciliary body → decreasing the production of aqueous humour → lowering intraocular pressure (IOP).
Dosificación por especie
- Management of glaucoma (including prophylactic management in unilateral primary closed-angle glaucoma) · 1 drop per eye · topical · q12h · Not specified · Can be used alone or in combination with other topical glaucoma drugs (e.g., topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors).
Las dosis son una referencia clínica para veterinarios colegiados. Confirme siempre con la ficha técnica vigente y el paciente individual.
Vías de administración
Contraindicaciones
- Uncontrolled heart failure
- Asthma
Efectos adversos
- Miosis
- Conjunctival hyperaemia
- Local ocular irritation
Interacciones farmacológicas
- Oral beta-blockers · Additive adverse effects (systemic beta-blockade) · moderate
- Calcium antagonists · Prolonged atrioventricular (AV) conduction times · major
- Digoxin · Prolonged atrioventricular (AV) conduction times · major
Monitorización
- Intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Heart rate and rhythm (due to potential systemic absorption)
- Signs of local ocular irritation
Sobredosis
**Clinical Pearl:** Overdosage via the ophthalmic route is rare but excessive application may lead to systemic absorption. Signs of systemic beta-blocker overdose include bradycardia, hypotension, and bronchospasm. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
La referencia de fármacos de VetSheet está destinada a veterinarios colegiados como apoyo a la decisión clínica, no sustituye el juicio profesional ni la ficha técnica vigente del fabricante.