👁 Glaucoma Treatment – Beta Blockers (BB) Overview
Beta blockers (BB) are one of the first-line treatments for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG),
commonly used alongside prostaglandin analogues.
💡 Mechanism of Action
ReceptorEffectMnemonic
| β2 | Increases blood flow → ↑Aqueous production | |
| BB | Blocks β2 → ↓blood flow → ↓Aqueous production | B↓ P↓ |
➡ BBs work by reducing aqueous humor production
💊 Common BB Medications
DrugNotes
| Timolol | Gold standard, systemic effect, pigment-sensitive |
| Betaxolol | Only β1-selective, possible neuroprotection |
| Levobunolol | Fast onset, strong efficacy |
| Carteolol | Less cardiovascular effects, cholesterol benefit |
| Metipranolol | Rarely used due to anterior uveitis risk |
📊 Meta-Analysis: 3-Month IOP Reduction
MedicationIOP Reduction (mmHg)
| Timolol | 3.7 |
| Levobunolol | 4.51 |
| Betaxolol | 2.24 |
| Carteolol | 3.44 |
✅ Timolol’s effect is the reference standard in clinical trials
✅ Summary
- BBs lower IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production
- Choice depends on patient comorbidities & side-effect profile
- Next post: Systemic side effects of BB eye drops
Comments