According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Glaucoma had affected more than 3 million Americans as of 2020.
These are a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. It is a nerve that connects your eye to the brain
It happens when fluid builds up in the front portion of your eye, increasing the pressure on the eye and affecting the optic nerve.
Glaucoma eye drops are considered the most effective way to reduce the pressure in the eye.
These eye drops may not considerably improve your vision, but they prevent the worsening of Glaucoma.
In this article, we will learn about the various kinds of prescription-based glaucoma eye drops available.
Common Glaucoma Eye Drops
Glaucoma, like most other eye disorders, is primarily treated using prescription-based eye drops.
There are two distinct functions of Glaucoma eye drops- draining the eye fluid and reducing the formation of the fluid.
You may be prescribed more than one eye drop to perform these functions.
We have created a list of Glaucoma eye drops for your reference.
- Lumigan (Bimatoprost)
This is a common medicine for open angle Glaucoma. Bimatoprost may also lead to thicker lashes. It’s made of a synthetic molecule derived from Anandamide
- Xalatan (Latanoprost)
These eye drops fall in the category of Prostaglandin eye drops. These are usually used once per day, and they help lower the eye fluid
| Prostaglandin eye drops are a class of eye drops used to reduce pressure inside the eye and relieve Glaucoma symptoms. |
- Timoptic (Timolol)
This is a commonly prescribed Beta blocker eye drop. These eye drops reduce the release of fluid in the eye
- Alphagan P (Brimonidine)
This is a popular Alpha Agonist eye drop, recommended for use 3 times a day. These eye drops both lower and drain the fluid in the eyes
- Cosopt (Dorzolamide/Timolol)
This is one of the best eye drops for Glaucoma. It is a combination eye drop, containing a mixture of a Carbonic Anhydrase inhibitor and a Beta blocker
Glaucoma Eye Drops Side-Effects
Source: Siganture_imagesGlaucoma eye drops can cause some side-effects initially.
These include redness, itchiness, blurred vision, etc., which generally improve with time.
Other side effects include low energy, Depression, fatigue, etc.
Glaucoma may also lead to low libido in all genders, even though this is a rare symptom.
Glaucoma eye drops may also cause breathing problems in people with a history of Asthma, Emphysema, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
An individual with an underlying condition may also experience tearing or swelling of the eye.
Most of these side effects are mild and get better with time.
However, if your symptoms do not get better in a few weeks, consult with your ophthalmologist.
To learn more about Glaucoma eye drop side effects, read Understanding Glaucoma Eye Drops Side Effects.
How Long do You Need to Take Glaucoma Eye Drops
Glaucoma eye drops are generally recommended for use twice a day.
Stick to the ophthalmologist’s prescription if you observe an improvement in your condition.
You may have to take the eye drops as long as the condition persists.
Never skip or stop the dosage of Glaucoma eye drops without consulting your doctor.
If the eyedrops fail to lower the pressure, your doctor may prescribe you Glaucoma pills or other Glaucoma medicines.
If these remedies prove ineffective, you may have to opt for Glaucoma laser treatment or surgery.
To explore more treatment options for Glaucoma, read The A to Z of Glaucoma Treatment and Prevention.
Conclusion
Glaucoma eye drops are the most popular alternative for reducing the effects of Glaucoma.
There are many kinds of Glaucoma eye drops that may be prescribed to you, depending on your condition.
Possible side effects of these eye drops include redness, itchiness, tearing, swelling, blurred vision, dizziness, etc.
These side effects usually reduce with time, but if they persist, consult your ophthalmologist.
Stick to your dosage and do not stop using Glaucoma eye drops without consulting your doctor..
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Glaucoma eye drops work?
Yes, Glaucoma eye drops work by lowering the pressure on the eye and draining the fluid. This helps in preventing further damage to the optic nerve. However, they don’t significantly improve your vision.
Do Glaucoma eye drops grow lashes?
Yes, Glaucoma eye drops can thicken lashes for some people. Certain elements like Bimatoprost in these eyedrops are also used for cosmetic purposes.
Can Glaucoma eye drops cause dark circles?
Certain eye drops can cause dark circles or even darken the color of your eyes. However, this may not be a condition to worry about. Consult your doctor for more clarity.
What happens if you stop taking Glaucoma drops?
A sudden termination of Glaucoma treatment can increase the eye pressure, further damaging the optic nerve. This may lead to irreparable damage that may require surgery later.
Are eye drops for Glaucoma permanent?
There is no permanent cure for Glaucoma. Therefore, you may have to take Glaucoma eye drops for as long as needed. These eye drops are important to prevent further damage to the optic nerve.
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