Which beta blocker is known to have the least cardiovascular side effects?

The beta blocker known to have the least cardiovascular side effects is Betaxolol. This medication is a selective beta-1 receptor antagonist, which means it primarily targets the beta-1 receptors located in the heart. Because of this selectivity, Betaxolol tends to have fewer systemic cardiovascular side effects compared to non-selective beta-blockers that block both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors.

Non-selective beta blockers, such as Timolol and Levobunolol, can cause more pronounced cardiovascular effects, including bronchoconstriction and alterations in heart rate and blood pressure, since they affect both the heart and the lungs. These effects can be particularly concerning for patients with underlying cardiovascular or respiratory conditions.

While Carteolol also has some beta-1 selectivity, it is not as selective as Betaxolol, and it can still have more cardiovascular side effects. Therefore, Betaxolol's profile makes it the preferable choice for patients who may be at risk for cardiovascular complications when using beta blockers for ocular conditions like glaucoma.