Glaucoma consists of a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, which affects vision. High levels of intraocular pressure, which is pressure inside the eye, typically causes this, according to the Mayo Clinic. Glaucoma can affect your sight so gradually that it might be unnoticeable until the condition is advanced. It is the second cause of blindness, so early detection and treatment is important.
How Medication for Glaucoma Works
Treatments for glaucoma help reduce pressure in the eye by improving drainage of the eye, lowering the amount of intraocular fluid that is produced, or both. Medicated eyedrops are typically the first line of treatment, and although damage cannot be reversed, treatments can slow down vision loss. Eyedrops should be used exactly as the doctor prescribes them, because improper use can do further damage to the optic nerve, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Alpha Agonists
Alpha agonists decrease fluid production and increase drainage in the eye, and include the drugs Iopidine and Alphagan P, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Side effects of these medications include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, fatigue, headaches, itchy and swollen eyes, and dry mouth.
Beta-Blockers
This class of drugs includes the medications Betoptic S, Betagan, Istalol, and OptiPranolol. Beta-blockers decrease the production of intraocular fluid, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Side effects of these drugs include low blood pressure and pulse rate, fatigue, shortness of breath and lowered libido.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
Azopt, Trusopt, Diamox and Sequels are drugs known as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. These medications reduce the amount of intraocular fluid that is made. Common side effects include tingling in your feet and hands, memory difficulties, depression, upset stomach and kidney stones. These side effects are more common with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors than the eyedrop form of the drugs, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Cholinergic/Miotic Agents
These medications increase drainage on the eye and include the drugs Isopto Carpine, Pilopine and Isopto Carbachol. Side effects include blurry vision, pain around the eyes, allergic reactions, nasal congestion, sweating and digestive problems.
Prostaglandin Analogs
This type of medication increases drainage of ocular fluid, and includes the drugs Xalatan, Lumigan, and Travatan. Typical side effects of these drugs include a change of pigment of the skin on the eyelid, mild stinging in the eye, darkening of the iris and blurred vision.
