BETAGAN Eye drops, solution Ref.[9460] Active ingredients: Levobunolol

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Beta blocking agents
ATC code: S01ED03

Levobunolol is a non-cardioselective beta-adrenoceptor blocking agent, equipotent at both beta₁ and beta₂ receptors. Levobunolol is greater than 60 times more potent than its dextro isomer in its beta-blocking activity. In order to obtain the highest degree of beta-blocking potential without increasing the potential for direct myocardial depression, the levo isomer, levobunolol, is used. Levobunolol does not have significant local anaesthetic (membrane-stabilising) or intrinsic sympathomimetic activity. Betagan has shown to be as effective as Timolol in lowering intraocular pressure.

Betagan when instilled in the eye will lower elevated intraocular pressure as well as normal intraocular pressure, whether or not accompanied by glaucoma. Elevated intraocular pressure presents a major risk factor in the pathogenesis of glaucomatous field loss. The higher the level of intraocular pressure, the likelihood of optic nerve damage and visual field loss.

The primary mechanism of action of levobunolol in reducing intraocular pressure is most likely a decrease in aqueous humor production. Betagan reduces intraocular pressure with little or no effect on pupil size in contrast to the miosis which cholinergic agents are known to produce.

The blurred vision and night blindness often associated with miotics would not be expected with the use of Betagan. Patients with cataracts avoid the inability to see around lenticular opacities caused by pupil constriction.