Glaucoma Drugs Flashcards
Name the alpha agonists for glaucoma
epinephrine (alpha1) and brimonidine (alpha2)
Mechanism of alpha agonists for glaucoma
decrease aqueous humor synthesis (via vasoconstriction is alpha1 effect)
Side effects of epinephrine for glaucoma
mydriasis (alpha1); do NOT use in closed-angle glaucoma
Side effects of brimonidine for glaucoma
blurry vision, ocular hyperemia, foreign body sensation, ocular allergic reactions, ocular pruritis
Name the beta blockers for glaucoma
timolol
betaxolol
carteolol
Mechanism of beta blockers for glaucoma
decrease aqueous humor synthesis
Side effects of beta blockers for glaucoma
no pupillary or vision changes
Name the diuretic used for glaucoma
acetazolamide
Mechanism of acetazolamide for glaucoma
decrease aqueous humor synthesis via inhibition of carbonic anhydrase
Side effect of acetazolamide for glaucoma
no pupillary or vision changes
Name the direct cholinomimetics for glaucoma
pilocarpine
carbachol
Name the indirect cholinomimetics for glaucoma
physostigmine
echothiophate
Mechanism of direct/indirect cholinomimetics for glaucoma
increase outflow of aqueous humor via contraction of ciliary muscle and opening of trabecular meshwork
Side effects of direct/indirect cholinomimetics for glaucoma
miosis (contraction of pupillary sphincter muscle)
cyclospasm (contraction of ciliary muscle)
Special note about pilocarpine for glaucoma
use in emergencies
very effective at opening meshwork into canal of Schlemm
