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Betimol Drug Interactions
Betimol Interactions Explained
The following sections explain in detail the potentially negative interactions that can occur when Betimol is combined with any of the drugs listed above.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Combining Betimol with calcium channel blockers may cause dangerously low blood pressure and (with certain calcium channel blockers) may cause a dangerously slow heart rate (bradycardia). You may need to be monitored very closely if you take these medications together. In some cases, it is not recommended to combine Betimol with a calcium channel blocker.
Clonidine
Stopping clonidine (without stopping the Betimol) could increase the risk of dangerously high blood pressure, strokes, and other serious problems. This is more common with oral beta blockers but could potentially happen with Betimol as well. If you need to stop taking clonidine, ask your healthcare provider for further instructions.
CYP 2D6 Inhibitors
Betimol is metabolized by a specific liver enzyme known as CYP 2D6. Some other medications (known as CYP 2D6 inhibitors) slow down the activity of this enzyme, causing an increase in the level of Betimol in the blood. This could potentially lead to serious Betimol side effects. Different medications inhibit the enzyme to different extents; some interactions may be minor, while others may be quite severe. Check with your healthcare provider before combining Betimol with a CYP 2D6 inhibitor.
Digoxin
Combining Betimol with digoxin may cause a dangerously slow heart rate (bradycardia). You may need to be monitored very closely if you take these medications together. In some cases, it is not recommended to combine Betimol with digoxin.
Epinephrine
Betimol may decrease the effectiveness of injectable epinephrine for treating allergic reactions. If you have a serious allergy that may potentially require treatment with epinephrine, Betimol might not be a good choice for you.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD