Metipranolol HCl can be used as a substitute for timolol maleate
(see above). Metipranolol is a nonselective beta blocking agent and
reduces intraocular pressure minimally in animals by decreasing
cyclic-AMP synthesis in the ciliary body. Pilot studies have suggested
that metipranolol is as effective as timolol maleate, but is significantly
less expensive then trade name timolol preparations, but not
the generically labeled products. Metipranolol has been useful for
the management of primary open angle glaucoma in cats.
