Pharmacology & Ocular Therapeutics Flashcards

Which drug class is typically considered first-line pharmacotherapy for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in the US?

Answer: Prostaglandin analogs

Prostaglandin analogs such as latanoprost are first-line for POAG due to their strong IOP-lowering efficacy and once-daily dosing convenience.

Beta-adrenergic blockers (e.g., timolol) lower intraocular pressure primarily by:

Answer: Decreasing aqueous humor production

Beta-blockers reduce IOP by blocking β-adrenergic receptors on the ciliary epithelium, decreasing aqueous humor secretion.

Brimonidine (Alphagan) belongs to which pharmacological class?

Answer: Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist

Brimonidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that lowers IOP by reducing aqueous production and increasing uveoscleral outflow.

Which topical anesthetic is most commonly used during ophthalmic procedures such as tonometry and foreign body removal?

Answer: Proparacaine

Proparacaine is the most widely used topical ophthalmic anesthetic, providing rapid corneal and conjunctival anesthesia without injection.

Cyclopentolate is classified pharmacologically as a:

Answer: Mydriatic-cycloplegic agent

Cyclopentolate is an anticholinergic that produces both pupil dilation (mydriasis) and paralysis of accommodation (cycloplegia) for refraction exams.

The most clinically significant systemic side effects of topical ophthalmic beta-blockers include:

Answer: Bradycardia and bronchospasm

Systemic absorption of topical beta-blockers can cause bradycardia and bronchospasm, posing serious risk in patients with cardiac disease or asthma.