Drugs Used to Treat Glaucoma and Other Eye Disorders

These flashcards summarize key terms and definitions related to drugs used for the treatment of glaucoma and other eye disorders.

Corneoscleral coat

Protective external layer of the eyeball.

Choroid

Nutritive middle vascular layer of the eye.

Retina

Light-sensitive inner layer of the eye.

Miosis

Contraction of the iris sphincter muscle.

Mydriasis

Relaxation of the sphincter muscle and contraction of the dilator muscle.

Intraocular pressure (IOP)

Pressure within the eye; elevated in glaucoma.

Aqueous humor

Fluid produced by the ciliary body that bathes the lens.

Cycloplegia

Paralysis of the ciliary muscle.

Beta blockers

Class of drugs that reduce the production of aqueous humor.

Prostaglandin Agonists

Drugs that increase the outflow of aqueous humor.

Cholinergic Agents

Medications that produce strong contractions of the iris and ciliary body.

Anticholinergic Agents

Drugs that relax smooth muscle of the ciliary body and iris.

Antifungal Agents

Medications like Natamycin used to treat fungal infections.

Antiviral Agents

Medications that inhibit viral replication.

Eye patches and shields

Used postoperatively; require proper positioning to avoid increased IOP.

Artificial tear solutions

Provide lubrication for dry eyes.

Diagnostic Agent: Fluorescein

Used to identify foreign bodies and evaluate retinal vasculature.

Corticosteroids

Used for allergic reactions and inflammation of the eye.

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors

Inhibit production of aqueous humor and can cause electrolyte imbalance.