Glaucoma is a dreaded eye disease that can, if untreated, render you blind. Unless diagnosed, glaucoma can be present without symptoms. It works by attacking the optic nerve. Medical research has yet to produce a cure, but there are medications designed to treat it. All of these may have side effects.
Adrenergic Agonists
Adrenergic agonists are administered as eye drops. Many people have allergic reactions to it, and it can cause a blurring of vision. Other possible side effects include burning sensation in the eyes, headaches, heart rhythm problems and accelerated heart rates.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers---under such brand names as Timolol Mateate USP, OptiPranolol and Betimol---work by reducing eye fluids. Side effects can include fatigue, shortness of breath, lowering of the pulse rate and low blood pressure. Unusual but possible side effects include lessened sex drive and depression.
Cholinergic Miotic
Cholinergic miotics---sold under names such as Isopto Carpine and Pilopine HS Gel---are used to create an upsurge in intraocular fluid draining. Side effects can include a dimming of vision, particularly in dark places.
Prostaglandin Analogs
Prostaglandin analogs also reduce the fluid in the eye. Side effects may include a change in eye color, itching, redness in the eye, blurred vision or a stinging or burning sensation. These medications are sold as Travatan (generic: travaprost), Lumigan (generic: bimatoprost) or Xalatan (generic: latanoprost).
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors reduce eye fluid production. They are taken as pills called Azopt (generic: Brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension), Diamox Sequels (generic: acetazolamide) and Trusopt (generic: dorzolamide HCI). Side effects can include depression, memory difficulties, kidney stones, nausea and increased urination.
Alpha Agonists
Alpha agonists marketed as Lopidine (generic: apraclonidine HCI) and Alphagan (generic: brimonidine tartrate) both increase fluid drainage and reduce fluid production. It is an eye drop that can cause stinging and burning at the time it is taken. Other side effects such as a dry nose and mouth, headaches, fatigue and drowsiness may follow.
Combination Drugs
Both alpha agonist and beta blocker type medications are combined in such medications as Combigan (generic: brimonidine tartrate and timolol maleate) and Cosopt (generic: dorzolomide HCI and timolol maleate) to lower the production of fluid. Side effects of these medications may include any of those associted with either type of medication. In addition, Cosopt may cause a change in how foods taste.
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