Unit 7: Gradual Loss of Vision

• First line treatment involves lowering IOP with eye drops that suppress aqueous humor production:
• Beta blockers *
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
• Alpha agonists
• Or increasing aqueous outflow:
• Prostaglandin analogues
• If these don’t give satisfactory results then the trabecular meshwork can be lasered to open up drainage, or an alternative drainage route can be made by undertaking glaucoma filtration surgery (trabeculectomy).

* CAUTION: Beta blocker eye drops can aggravate bradycardia and obstructive airways disease, so always review ocular medications when managing either condition.