Prostaglandin analogues
These are the latest type of glaucoma medications, which includes Xalatan, Travoprost and Latanoprost. Prostaglandins were first introduced in 1996 and accepted initially as a secondary therapy. This has changed and these drugs have been accepted as a primary therapy option for glaucoma. They work by increasing the flow of fluid out of the eye, helping to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP). Prostaglandins must be taken everyday at the same time if possible.Possible common Side Effects:
- Hyperemia (redness of the eye)
- Darkening eye color (may be permanent)
- Stinging
- Blurred vision
- Itching
Beta Blockers
This category of glaucoma medication has been used for decades. Timolol (Timoptic) is the most common beta blocker. These are required to be taken from 1-2 times daily and at the same times each day if possible. Beta blockers decrease the production of fluid entering the eye, helping to lower the IOP.Possible common Side Effects:
- Change in cardiac activity:
- lower heart rate
- lower blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath for patients with respiratory disorders
- Reduced libido
- Depression
Alpha agonists
This type of medication needs to be taken 3 times daily. It has a dual benefit of decreasing fluid production as well as increasing fluid out of the eye, helping to lower the IOP. Brimonidine is the most common alpha agonist.Possible common Side Effects:
- Stinging of eyes after taking drops
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Dry nose
Carbonic anahydrase inhibitors
These medications are available in oral tablets or medicated eye drops like Brinzolamide or Dorzolamide. Eye drops need to be taken 3 times daily. This type of glaucoma medication decreases the amount of fluid produced in the eye, helping to lower IOP.Possible common Side Effects for oral medication:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Frequent urination
- Tingling and/or loss of strength in hands and feet
- Memory problems
- Depression
- Kidney stones
Possible common Side Effects for eye drops:
- Stinging
*Long-term studies are not available as the drops are relatively new.
Miotics
Pilocarpine is the most common medication and has been on the market for decades. It is usually taken 3-4 times daily. Miotics increase the flow of fluid out of the eye by decreasing the pupil size, helping to lower the IOP.Possible common Side Effects:
- Blurred vision
- Brow ache
- Poor vision at night
NOTE: It is absolutely imperative that glaucoma patients using medications take the medications exactly as instructed by their physicians. Not following your physician's instructions will have a direct impact on the effectiveness of your glaucoma therapy and possibly your quality of vision in the future.
Continue on to Laser Therapy
