Which topical beta-blocker is the preferred choice for a glaucoma patient with mild reactive airways disease who still requires a beta-blocker?
- A Betaxolol ✓
- B Levobunolol
- C Timolol maleate
- D Carteolol
Correct answer: A. Betaxolol
Explanation
Betaxolol is a cardioselective beta-1 antagonist with minimal beta-2 receptor blockade, so it causes less bronchoconstriction than non-selective agents such as timolol, levobunolol, and carteolol, which block bronchial beta-2 receptors. Although betaxolol lowers intraocular pressure slightly less than timolol, its beta-1 selectivity makes it the safer beta-blocker when airway disease is present.
Reference: Katzung's Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.