Betim

What is it?

A non-cardioselective β-blocker available as white, scored tablets containing 10mg timolol maleate and marked with 102 and symbol.

Medical Uses

Prevention of second heart attack following initial episode, angina, hypertension, prevention of migraine.

Dosage

Adults, prevention of secondary heart attack, 5mg twice each day for first 2 days, thereafter 10mg twice each day. Angina, 10mg twice each day at first, adjusted according to response to a maximum of 60mg. Hypertension, 10mg a day at first in single or divided dose increasing by 10mg every 3 to 4 days to a maximum of 60mg. Usual maintenance dose is in the order of 10-30mg. Prevention of migraine, 1020mg each day in 1 or 2 divided doses.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breast-feeding, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, those undergoing general anaesthesia, patients with weak hearts should receive digitalis and diuretics. Drug should be stopped gradually.

Avoid Use

Children, patients with asthma or history of breathing difficulties, those with various forms of heart disease including heart block, heart shock, slow heartbeat, heart failure.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Class I antiarrhythmics, cardiac depressant anaesthetics, ergotamine, sedatives, sympathomimetics, cimetidine, iudometacin, reserpine, hypoglycaemic drugs, clonidine withdrawal, verapamil.

Known Side Effects

Sleep disturbance, cold feet and hands, slow heartbeat, fatigue in exercise, wheeziness, heart failure, gastro-intestinal upset, dry eyes or skin rash (stop drug gradually).