Kerlone 0.5%

Kerlone (betaxolol hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that belongs to a group of medications known as beta blockers. It is approved for treating high blood pressure. It is a cardioselective beta blocker, which means that it is more likely to block beta-1 receptors (such as those in the heart and blood vessels) than beta-2 receptors (such as those in the lungs).

The initial dose of Kerlone in hypertension is ordinarily 10 mg once daily either alone or added to diuretic therapy. The full antihypertensive effect is usually seen within 7 to 14 days. If the desired response is not achieved the dose can be doubled after 7 to 14 days. Increasing the dose beyond 20 mg has not been shown to produce a statistically significant additional antihypertensive effect; but the 40-mg dose has been studied and is well tolerated. An increased effect (reduction) on heart rate should be anticipated with increasing dosage. If the therapy with Kerlone does not produce the desired response, the addition of a diuretic agent or other antihypertensive should be considered

Cautions:
It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This is to make sure the medicine is working for you and to allow the dosage to be changed if needed.
Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor . Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely.
Tell your doctor right away if you have weight gain or increasing shortness of breath. These could be symptoms of worsening heart failure.
Your doctor may want you to carry medical identification stating that you are taking this medicine.
Before having any kind of surgery (including dental surgery) or emergency treatment, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking this medicine .

Side effects:
Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, headache, and shortness of breath may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Trouble sleeping, decreased sexual ability, stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, sore throat, cold hands and feet, dry eyes, tingling, numbness, and weakness may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Overdose:
No specific information on emergency treatment of overdosage with Kerlone is available. The most common effects expected are bradycardia, congestive heart failure, hypotension, bronchospasm and hypoglycemia.