Carteol Hcl (Carteolol Hydrochloride)

Description

Indications

Carteolol is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high pressure inside the eye caused by glaucoma (open-angle type) or other eye conditions such as ocular hypertension. Lowering high pressure inside the eye helps to prevent blindness. Carteolol is a beta blocker and is believed to work by reducing the production of fluid within the eye.

Uses and Dosage

Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. This medication is for use in the eye only. Do not swallow or inject it.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Before using the eye drops, check for any brown discoloration, cloudiness, or particles. Do not use the eye drops if any of these are present.

The preservative in this product may be absorbed by contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using the eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes after application before reinserting your contact lenses.

To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:

1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
2. Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
3. Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
4. Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
5. Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
6. Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
7. Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
8. Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
9. Wash hands to remove any residual medication.

Use this medication regularly to achieve the best results. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Continue using this medication even if you feel well, as most people with high eye pressure do not feel sick.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• headache
• irritability
• nausea
• sleeplessness
• trouble concentrating

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• blurred vision
• chest pain or discomfort
• confusion
• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly
• shortness of breath
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• sweating
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Caution

• Before using carteolol, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other beta blockers (such as timolol), or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as preservatives) that could cause allergic reactions or other issues.
• Prior to using this medication, provide your doctor or pharmacist with your medical history, especially if you have any of the following conditions: lung disease or breathing problems, slow or irregular heartbeat, heart disease, diabetes, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), blood circulation problems, low blood flow to the brain, mental or mood disorders, certain nerve or muscle problems (such as myasthenia gravis), or a history of severe allergic reactions.
• If you develop an eye infection, sustain an eye injury, or undergo eye surgery, consult your doctor about whether you should continue using your current bottle of carteolol. You may be advised to start using a new bottle.
• After applying this drug, your vision may temporarily become blurred. Avoid driving, using machinery, or engaging in any activity that requires clear vision until you can do so safely.
• This product may prevent the rapid or pounding heartbeat typically felt when your blood sugar level falls too low (hypoglycemia). The risk is higher if you have diabetes, are vomiting, fasting, or not eating regularly. Other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness and sweating, are not affected by this drug.
• If you have diabetes, this product may make it more challenging to control your blood sugar levels. Check your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your doctor. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Carteol HCL is available in the following forms and strengths:

• carteolol hydrochloride ophthalmic solution:
  • 1 %

FAQ

Will Carteol HCL affect my blood pressure?

Very small amounts of Carteol are absorbed into your bloodstream, so while it’s possible for it to cause changes to blood pressure, it’s very unlikely.

What is the difference between Carteol HCL and timolol?

These are two prescriptions in the same class of medications: beta blocker eye drops. They work in very similar ways, but timolol has more possible side effects than Carteol.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/carteolol/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.rxlist.com/carteolol-hydrochloride-drug.htm
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/carteolol-ophthalmic-route/side-effects/drg-20070992
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16267/carteolol-ophthalmic-eye/details
5. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/carteolol-ophthalmic.html