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Getting started in therapeutics (C7947)

Clinical Practice
Continuing our series on therapeutics in practice, Lucy Titcomb and Professor John Lawrenson second article looks at anti-glaucoma drugs, artificial tears and ocular lubricants. C7947, two CET points suitable for optometrists, additional supply optometrists and supplementary prescribers

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Anti-glaucoma medication

The principal aim of glaucoma therapy is to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) to a level that prevents further visual loss. Modern glaucoma management advocates the use of 'target pressures'. Target pressures will vary depending on risk factors and disease severity, but typically involve an IOP reduction of between 20-40 per cent from the pressure at which damage first occurred. This is usually achieved by topical agents that decrease aqueous secretion or increase outflow (achieved either by improving flow through the conventional trabecular pathway or increasing uveoscleral drainage). Drugs used in the treatment of glaucoma are covered in section 11.6 of the BNF and include:

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