An Introduction to Betaxolol Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
betaxolol hydrochloride (
Betoptic®,
Kerlone®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with betaxolol. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of betaxolol side effects with you.)
Common Side Effects of Betaxolol
Betaxolol has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people taking either a similar medication or, in some cases, a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients). This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the groups not taking the medicine.
In these studies, the most common side effects of betaxolol tablets included:
- Fatigue -- in up to 9.7 percent of people
- A slow heart rate (bradycardia) -- up to 8.1 percent
- Nausea -- up to 5.8 percent
- Joint pain -- up to 5.2 percent
- Insomnia -- up to 5 percent
- Indigestion or heartburn -- up to 4.7 percent.
The most common side effect of the eye drops was temporary eye discomfort
(see Betoptic Side Effects for more information).
