Ophthalmic Pharmaceuticals

Question 1

Corticosteroids

Answer 1

• Anti-inflammatory at low dose, Immunosuppressant at high dose
• MoA: Inhibit phospholipase A2 enzyme + prevents release of arachinidonic Acid
• Treats Iritis + conjunctivitis
• Drug example: Predforte (Strong steroid), Alrex (Mild steroid)
• Adverse effects: Elevated IOP, Cataract (Long use of corticosteroid)

Question 2

NSAID’s

Answer 2

• MOA: Inhibit Cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 + COX-2)
• OPHTHALMIC USE: Treat pain and inflammation after cataract surgery, off-label for pain management
• DRUG EXAMPLES: Voltaren (Diclofenac sodium gel), Propensa (Bromfenac Sol.)
• ADVERSE EFFECTS: Burning, stinging, Hyperemia (redness)

Question 3

Corticosteroid/Antibiotic combo

Answer 3

• OPHTHALMIC USE: Bacterial Conjunctivitis
• DRUG EXAMPLE: Blephamide (Sulphonamide antibiotic with corticosteroid - Susp. Or Ung.)
• DRUG EXAMPLE: Tobradex (Aminoglycoside antibiotic with Corticosteroid - Susp. Sol. Or Ung.
• ADVERSE EFFECTS: Allergic reactions, Elevated IOP

Question 4

Immuno-modulators

Answer 4

Modify immune system - Either Immunostimulators (Enhance immune system against disease/conditions) or immunosuppressants (Reduce immune response)

• DRUG EXAMPLE: Restasis - MoA: inhibits Inflammation in tear glands - OPHTHALMIC USE: Dry eye disease - ADVERSE EFFECTS: Conjunctival hyperemia, stinging, blurry vision
• DRUG EXAMPLE: Xiidra - MoA: Interferes with inflammatory cycle - OPHTHALMIC USE: Inflammatory dry eye disease - ADVERSE EFFECTS: Burning, stinging, irritation