Cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist that reduces aqueous humor production. Unlike timolol (non-selective), betaxolol spares beta-2 receptors — less risk of bronchospasm. May also have neuroprotective properties for the optic nerve.
At a glance
Class
Ophthalmic Selective Beta-1 Blocker
Storage
Store at room temperature; shake suspension before use
Dosing
Used for glaucoma in patients where timolol is contraindicated (asthma, bronchos
Preferred over timolol in cats with asthma or airway disease
Safety
IOPHeart rateRespiratory effort (though less concern than timolol)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Betaxolol Ophthalmic?
Betaxolol Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic selective beta-1 blocker used in pets. Cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist that reduces aqueous humor production. Unlike timolol (non-selective), betaxolol spares beta-2 receptors — less risk of bronchospasm. May also have neuroprotective properties for the optic nerve.
›What is Betaxolol Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Betaxolol Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for glaucoma in patients where timolol is contraindicated (asthma, bronchos; Preferred over timolol in cats with asthma or airway disease.
›What is the Betaxolol Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Betaxolol Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for glaucoma in patients where timolol is contraindicated (asthma, bronchos: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Betaxolol Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Betaxolol Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Preferred over timolol in cats with asthma or airway disease: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Betaxolol Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Betaxolol Ophthalmic is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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