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Drugs Used on the Eye
Drugs Used on the Eye
EYE
PRESENTED BY;
- Eye drops
- Ointments
- Gels
- Suspensions
- Inserts
Classes of drugs used on the eye
There are several classes of drugs used for treating various eye conditions. Here's an overview of some
common classes of eye medications:
1. Antibiotics:
Antibiotic eye drops and ointments are used to treat bacterial eye infections such as
conjunctivitis (pink eye) and bacterial keratitis.
They work by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of bacteria, helping to clear the infection
and reduce inflammation.
2. Antihistamines
Antihistamine eye drops are used to relieve itching, redness, and inflammation associated with
allergic conjunctivitis (allergic eye reactions).
They work by blocking the action of histamine, a substance released by the body during an
allergic reaction, thereby reducing the symptoms of eye allergies.
3. Corticosteroids:
Corticosteroid eye drops are used to treat inflammatory eye conditions such as uveitis, iritis, and
severe allergic conjunctivitis. They work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the body's
immune response, helping to alleviate symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain.
4. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
NSAID eye drops are used to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling following eye surgery
or to manage certain types of eye conditions.
They work by inhibiting the production of inflammatory substances called prostaglandins,
providing relief from pain and inflammation.
5. Glaucoma Medications:
There are several classes of drugs used to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma,
including prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers, alpha agonists, and carbonic anhydrase
inhibitors.
These medications work by either reducing the production of aqueous humor (fluid inside
the eye) or by improving its drainage, thereby lowering pressure within the eye and
helping to prevent damage to the optic nerve.
Antibiotics
Azithromycin (Azasite), Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan), Ofloxacin (Ocuflox), Gentamicin (Garamycin), Erythromycin
(Ilotycin)
Antihistamines;
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Ketotifen (Zaditor), Azelastine (Optivar), Bepotastine (Bepreve), Epinastine (Elestat)
Corticosteroids;
Prednisolone (Pred Forte), Dexamethasone (Maxidex), Fluorometholone (Flarex), Loteprednol (Lotemax),
Rimexolone (Vexol)
NSAIDs ;
Ketorolac (Acular), Diclofenac (Voltaren), Ibuprofen (Advil), Naproxen (Aleve), Flurbiprofen (Ocufen)
Glaucoma medications :
Timolol (Timoptic), Latanoprost (Xalatan), Travoprost (Travatan), Bimatoprost (Lumigan), Dorzolamide (Trusopt)
1. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Certain medications, like isotretinoin (Accutane), are contraindicated due to risk
of birth defects or infant exposure.
2. Allergies: Patients allergic to specific medications, like sulfonamides (e.g., sulfacetamide), should avoid them.
3. Kidney or liver disease: Certain medications, like carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide), may be
contraindicated due to potential toxicity.
4. Glaucoma: Steroid medications can exacerbate glaucoma; so they should be used with caution.
5. Cataracts: Certain medications, like anticholinergics (e.g., atropine), can worsen cataracts.
6. Corneal conditions: Topical medications like corticosteroids can delay corneal healing.
7. Retinal conditions: Certain medications, like anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), can increase the risk of bleeding.
8. Eye injuries or surgery: Certain medications, like anticoagulants or NSAIDs, may be contraindicated due to
increased bleeding risk.
9. Interactions with other medications: Combine medications with caution, as interactions can worsen eye
conditions.
10. Age: Pediatric or geriatric patients may require adjusted dosages or special considerations.
Adverse effects
Ophthalmic drugs, like all medications, can cause adverse effects. Some common adverse
effects of ophthalmic drugs include: