Important safety information (for all beta-blockers)
The CSM has advised that all betablockers including those with cardioselectivity should not be used in patients with asthma or obstructive airways disease unless no other treatment is available. In such cases the risk of inducing bronchospasm should be appreciated and appropriate precautions taken.
Beta-blockers
Systemic absorption can follow topical application and contraindications are therefore asthma, bradycardia and congestive heart failure. This applies to all topical beta-blockers.
Timolol eye drops are also available in preservative-free units (Tiopex®) and as a long-acting gel.
