Increased pressure in the eye causes glaucoma, a disease of the eye that damages the optic nerve. The optic nerve is a bundle of nerve fibers that carried images from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma progressively damages this nerve, causing vision problems and even blindness. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) explains that glaucoma treatment aims to decrease eye pressure with medication and in some cases with surgery.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blocker eye drops are the most commonly prescribed medications for glaucoma, and are sold under several brand names such as Ocupress, Timoptic, Ocudose, Betoptic and Optipranolol. They work by lowering the pressure in the eye. The University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary advises that though beta-blockers have been proven to be safe and effective in the treatment of glaucoma, they can cause long-term side effects and should be avoided by individuals with diabetes because they may cause symptoms of hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose. They can also cause bronchospasms and worsen asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Certain types of beta-blockers may work better than others, and all beta-blockers are less effective in individuals with dark-colored irises.
Prostaglandin Analogues
Prostaglandin analogue medications work to lower eye pressure by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor, the fluid in the eyes. Unlike beta-blockers, this type of medication works in patients with dark-colored irises as well. Prostaglandin analogues are sold under the brand names Xalatan, Rescula, Lumigan and other prescription eye drops.The UMMC advises that pregnant women should avoid prostaglandin eye drops because they can induce labor.
Alpha-Adrenergic Agonists
Alpha-adrenergic agonists work by both decreasing the production of aqueous humor fluid in the lungs and by increasing the fluid outflow to lower eye pressure. They are sold under the brand names Alphagan, Ipodine and Propine, and require twice-daily administration for the treatment of glaucoma, as noted by the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary. Alpha-adrenergic agonist medications also have protective properties on the retinal nerve cells of the eye. Side effects of these eye drops include allergic reactions, eye redness, low blood pressure and other cardiovascular effects.
