by Introduction to Eye Medications
The eye is a delicate organ that requires careful treatment and management of various conditions. Ophthalmic drugs play an important role in effectively treating eye diseases and maintaining overall eye health. These medications are designed specifically for topical use in and around the eye. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of ophthalmic drugs prescribed by eye doctors.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are frequently used to treat bacterial eye infections. Some common antibiotics available in ophthalmic form include:
– Fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin work by interfering with bacterial DNA replication. They are effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria responsible for conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and other external eye infections.
– Aminoglycosides like gentamicin and tobramycin kill bacteria by disrupting protein synthesis. These broad-spectrum antibiotics are generally reserved for severe infections caused by more resistant bacteria.
– Polymyxins like polymyxin B are bactericidal antibiotics used as a protective layer in some multi-dose artificial tear drops and eyelid cleansers.
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Redness, swelling, and irritation are common signs of inflammatory ocular conditions. Anti-inflammatory medications help control these symptoms and promote healing.
– Corticosteroids are very potent at reducing inflammation. Common Ophthalmic Drugs corticosteroids include prednisolone, dexamethasone, and loteprednol. Short-term use is generally safe and effective but long-term risks include increased eye pressure and cataracts.
– Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) offer an alternative to corticosteroids. Ketorolac and bromfenac work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes. NSAIDs are preferred for chronic use due to their lower side effect profile.
– Mast cell stabilizers prevent degranulation of mast cells, thereby inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators. Cromolyn sodium is an example frequently used to treat allergic conjunctivitis.
Artificial Tears and Lubricants
Dry eyes, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears to stay moisturized and comfortable. Lubricating eye drops replenish moisture and reduce irritation.
– Preservative-free artificial tears are simple saline solutions that mimic natural tears. Varieties include polyvinyl alcohol, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose.
– Thicker gels and ointments like glycerin provide longer-lasting relief, especially at night. However, they may blur vision temporarily.
– Uses of oils such as castor or olive oil have declined due to risks of lipid deposition on the cornea. However, they remain useful on short term.
Glaucoma Medications
Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure that can damage the optic nerve over time without treatment. Topical eye drops are usually the first line defense.
– Prostaglandin analogs like latanoprost, travoprost and others work by increasing outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway. They are generally the most effective class of drugs.
– Beta blockers such as timolol and betaxolol decrease aqueous humor production. Non-selective varieties may cause breathing issues in asthma/COPD patients.
– Alpha agonists like brimonidine lower pressure by constricting eye vessels as well as decreasing aqueous humor production. Common side effects include allergic conjunctivitis.
– Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as dorzolamide inhibit carbonic anhydrase, an enzyme required to produce aqueous humor within the eye. Topical burns/stinging may occur.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
