Glaucoma

Question 1

mechanism of glaucoma

Answer 1

ocular tension destroys optic nerve which eventually leads to vision loss; tension caused by too much aqueous humor or poor trabecular meshwork function to filter fluid out

Question 2

glaucoma meds

Answer 2

prostaglandin analogs:
latanoprost

beta-adrenergic antagonists:
timolol

alpha-adrenergic agonists:
brimonidine

Question 3

mechanism of action w/glaucoma meds

Answer 3

prostaglandin analogs increase function of trabecular meshwork function to filter fluid out “help pee out humor”

beta-adrenergic antagonists decrease production of aqueous humor “β”

alpha-adrenergic agonists do both of above “α”

Question 4

normal side effects associated w/glaucoma meds

Answer 4

temporary stinging
conjuntivitis
blurred vision (may recommend taking at night)

Question 5

major side effect of prostaglandin analogs

Answer 5

permanent increased pigmentation of iris and/or eyelids

Question 6

major side effects of beta-adrenergic blockers

Answer 6

bradychardia
hypotension
bronchoconstriction

contraindicated for pts w/CV dz, bradychardia, heart block, or asthma

Question 7

major side effects of alpha-adrenergic agonists

Answer 7

hypotension

drowsiness d/t cross BBB

Question 8

administration of glaucoma meds

Answer 8

remove contacts
don't touch dropper tip/lid to anything
place drop in conjunctival sac
gently press on nasolacrimal duct for 1min
spaces additional drops by five minutes
wait 10-15mins to reinsert contacts