AOC Pharmacology Fundamentals 2

Question 1

Which class of drugs is used to reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing aqueous humor production through inhibition of carbonic anhydrase?

Accepted Answer

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Answer

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., dorzolamide, acetazolamide) reduce IOP by inhibiting the enzyme that produces aqueous humor in the ciliary body.

Question 2

A patient presents with angle-closure glaucoma. Which topical agent is CONTRAINDICATED due to risk of further pupillary dilation?

Accepted Answer

Tropicamide

Answer

Tropicamide is a mydriatic/cycloplegic agent that dilates the pupil, which can worsen angle-closure glaucoma by pushing the iris against the trabecular meshwork.

Question 3

Which prostaglandin analog lowers IOP primarily by increasing uveoscleral outflow?

Accepted Answer

Latanoprost

Answer

Latanoprost (Xalatan) is a prostaglandin F2α analog that lowers IOP mainly by enhancing uveoscleral aqueous humor outflow.

Question 4

What is the mechanism of action of pilocarpine in the treatment of glaucoma?

Accepted Answer

Contracts the ciliary muscle to open the trabecular meshwork

Answer

Pilocarpine, a cholinergic agonist, contracts the ciliary muscle, which pulls on the scleral spur and opens the trabecular meshwork to enhance aqueous outflow.

Question 5

Which side effect is most commonly associated with topical prostaglandin analogs such as bimatoprost?

Accepted Answer

Iris heterochromia and eyelash growth

Answer

Prostaglandin analogs like bimatoprost can cause increased iris pigmentation (heterochromia) and enhanced eyelash growth due to melanocyte stimulation.

(AOC) American Orthoptic Council Practice Test

(AOC) American Orthoptic Council Practice Test

AOC Pharmacology Fundamentals 2