What is the difference between selective and non-selective beta blockers for glaucoma treatment?

One is more safe: Beta blockers can either block beta1 or beta2 receptors. Beta 1 receptors are in the heart and blocking them can cause the heart to slow down causing tiredness, irregular heart beat and shortness of breath....One of the drawbacks of timolol. Selective beta blockers such as betoptic (betaxolol) are supposed to have less of an effect of this type but are best avoided if a patient is sensitive to beta blockers.

Side effects: Side effects such as effects on breathing are less common with selective than with non-selective beta blockers. If blockers are used in tablet form for oral medication, eye drops may not be as effective. Choice of glaucoma treatment can depend on other medical co-conditions and side effect profile.