Carteolol
OCUPRESS
What it isNon-selective beta blocker eye drop with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity; glaucoma.
Why this oneThe partial agonism gives a slightly better lipid and heart-rate profile than timolol.
What limits itSystemic beta blockade still occurs. Avoid in asthma and heart block.
FDA-approved for
- open-angle glaucoma / ocular hypertension
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elevated intraocular pressure / open-angle glaucoma | Adults | 1 drop affected eye(s) BID | 1 drop BID |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Instill 1 drop of 1% solution in affected eye(s) twice daily
Contraindications
- Bronchial asthma or history of asthma
- Severe COPD
- Sinus bradycardia
- Second- or third-degree AV block
- Overt cardiac failure
- Cardiogenic shock
Cautions
- Systemic beta-blockade from ophthalmic absorption (bradycardia, hypotension)
- Bronchospasm in bronchospastic disease
- May mask hypoglycemia in insulin-dependent diabetics
- Cardiac/respiratory failure
Adverse reactions
- Transient ocular irritation/burning/tearing
- Conjunctival hyperemia/edema
- Systemic: bradycardia, decreased blood pressure
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskSystemic beta blockade from eye drops
Cost, est. cash$10–$300/month
Generic entry2000
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilityBradycardia, hypotension and bronchospasm; overdose may cause conduction block or cardiogenic shock.
Mechanism of action: Carteolol ballicule
