Glaucoma, drugs used beta-blockers

Pilocarpine is classified as a tertiary amine that has parasympathomimetic activity. When administered as eye drops, it causes pupillary constriction or miosis and is therefore indicated in the treatment of glaucoma. In glaucoma, multiple-drug therapy may be necessary to achieve the desired intraocular control. Pilocarpine may be used in combination with topical beta-blockers such as timolol. 

A beta-blocker may be used in the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma, but these drugs are contraindicated for use in persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart block (see Chapter 10). A careful history should be taken before initiating therapy to avoid potentially fatal ramifications. It is advisable to monitor patients who are taking beta-blockers (e.g., pulse, blood pressure) and to inquire about side effects at periodic follow-up examinations. 

Glaucoma is a disorder of vision accompanied by an increase in ocular pressure. Although mostly replaced by other drugs (e.g., beta blockers and pilocarpine), anti-ChE drugs such as ecothiopate are still used in the treatment of these common disorders. 

Glaucoma represents a significant health problem with estimates that between 2 to 9 percent of the adult population worldwide suffers from increased intraocular pressure. Current therapy include use of so-called beta-blockers . These drugs however are not effective for all patients and often result in undesirable side effects that include lowered pulse rate, asthma and gastrointestinal problems. It thus would be desirable to have a new means for treatment of glaucoma. 

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