Betaxolol is a prescription drug used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. It is categorized as a beta blocker. Betaxolol and other beta blockers act on nerve impulses to encourage the blood vessels to relax and slow down the heart rate. This causes a decrease in blood pressure. The end result is that the heart receives more blood and oxygen. Lowering one's blood pressure can reduce the risk of damage to the heart and blood vessels as well as help prevent strokes and heart attacks. A doctor may prescribe other high blood pressure medications along with this one as part of a complete treatment regimen.
Betaxolol is taken by mouth, usually once every day. Patients should take the tablet at about the same time daily. After prescribing this medication, the doctor will check the patient's blood pressure again after one to two weeks. If the patient is not responding properly betaxolol, he may increase or decrease the dose. The full effect may not be evident for one to two weeks.
Patients taking betaxolol may need to limit physical activity until the proper dosage is ascertained. The prescribing doctor will conduct periodic tests to ensure the patient's safety and the efficacy of the drug. If a patient undergoes surgery, including dental surgery, he may need to discontinue taking betaxolol prior to the procedure. An eye doctor will also need to know a person is using this medicine prior to conducting a test for glaucoma.
Serious side effects and symptoms of a possible overdose must be addressed with immediate medical help. These can include chest pain; swelling of the lower extremities; and problems breathing, especially while lying down or during physical activity. Other patients may experience an irregular, pounding, or slowed heartbeat. Unusual weight gain also may occur.
Other serious side effects include chills; cold sweats; and cool, pale skin. Convulsions, dizziness, and loss of consciousness also may occur. Shakiness, slurred speech, and extreme fatigue as well as weakness may become severe.
Patients also should discuss less serious, but persistent, side effects with a physician. These can include joint pain, nausea, and diarrhea. Insomnia, unusual dreams, and impotence in men may occur as well. Some patients have reported experiencing a rash, heartburn, and numbness or tingling in the feet, hands, and limbs.
Before taking betaxolol, one should inform one's physician of all other medicines and supplements one is taking. In addition, one should adhere to healthy lifestyle guidelines to encourage a lower blood pressure. Eating a diet that is low in sodium and exercising regularly is essential for long-term health.