Generic name: Levobunolol ophthalmic
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Akbeta?
Levobunolol ophthalmic (for the eyes) is a beta-blocker that is used to treat open-angle glaucoma and other causes of high pressure inside the eye.
Levobunolol ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to levobunolol, or if you have:
- asthma, or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
- slow heartbeats; or
- a heart condition called "AV block."
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- breathing problems such as bronchitis or emphysema;
- heart problems;
- peripheral vascular disease such as Raynaud's syndrome;
- diabetes;
- a thyroid disorder; or
- a muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
How should I use Akbeta
Use Akbeta (Ophthalmic) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.
Wash your hands before using eye medication.
To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.
Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Store at room temperature away from heat and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any eye injury or infection. If you have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using levobunolol ophthalmic. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
Akbeta side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe swelling, itching, burning, redness, pain, or discomfort in or around your eye;
- bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing);
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- slow heart rate, weak pulse; or
- numbness, cold feeling, or pale appearance of your fingers or toes.
Common side effects may include:
- mild burning, stinging, or eye discomfort;
- feeling like something is in your eye;
- blurred vision;
- dizziness, weakness;
- headache; or
- rash or itching.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Akbeta?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.