Eye Drops and Side Effects

Pilocarpine is the oldest drug used to treat glaucoma and has been in use for over a century. It has some unpleasant ocular side effects. Since it usually contracts the pupil, vision is darkened due to a reduced amount of light entering the eye. Use of low-strength drops or a gel at bedtime may reduce this side effect.

Propine, in the adrenalin epinephrine family, is also helpful and is often prescribed with pilocarpine or other drugs. Propine and other drugs in this family may cause red, teary eyes.

Timolol is a commonly prescribed "Betablocker." Side effects may include reduced pulse rate and bronchial asthma. If you are taking a Betablocker for glaucoma, be sure to tell your general physician.

Xalatan (latanaprost) is a groundbreaking addition to the treatment of glaucoma. It is an antiprostaglandin drug that is administered at night either as the sole medication or with a morning dose of a Betablocker.

Since Xalatan, other drugs have been developed to facilitate the treatment of glaucoma. Lumigan, Travatan, and Cosopt are also used to treat increased eye pressure caused by open-angle glaucoma in adult patients.