NBEO Pharmacology & Ocular Disease Treatment

Question 1

What class of medication is used as first-line treatment for glaucoma?

Accepted Answer

Prostaglandin analogs (e.g., latanoprost) that increase uveoscleral outflow to lower intraocular pressure

Answer

Prostaglandin analogs are the most commonly prescribed first-line glaucoma medications, reducing IOP by 25-33% through increased outflow of aqueous humor via the uveoscleral pathway, with once-daily dosing.

Question 2

What are cycloplegic and mydriatic agents used for in optometry?

Accepted Answer

Cycloplegics paralyze accommodation for accurate refraction; mydriatics dilate the pupil for fundus examination

Answer

Cycloplegics (e.g., cyclopentolate) paralyze the ciliary muscle for objective refraction in children. Mydriatics (e.g., tropicamide) dilate the pupil for retinal examination. Some agents have both properties.

Question 3

What are anti-VEGF injections used to treat?

Accepted Answer

Wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor that drives abnormal blood vessel growth

Answer

Anti-VEGF agents (ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab) are injected intravitreally to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in wet AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.

Question 4

What is the treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Topical broad-spectrum antibiotic eye drops or ointment such as fluoroquinolones or erythromycin

Answer

Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with topical antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, or erythromycin ointment). Broad-spectrum coverage is typically used empirically, with culture-guided therapy for severe or resistant cases.

Question 5

What are the side effects of topical corticosteroid eye drops?

Accepted Answer

Elevated intraocular pressure (steroid-induced glaucoma), posterior subcapsular cataract formation, and increased risk of infection

Answer

Prolonged topical steroid use can elevate IOP (steroid response), accelerate cataract formation, impair wound healing, and increase susceptibility to infections (herpes simplex, fungal), requiring careful monitoring.

NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry Practice Test

NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry Practice Test

NBEO Pharmacology & Ocular Disease Treatment