Mechanism of action, types, and effects of sympathomimetic α2 agonist among glaucoma treatment drugs

👁 Glaucoma Drugs – α2 Agonists Explained

α2 agonists are a class of glaucoma medications that:
✅ Increase uveoscleral outflow
✅ Reduce aqueous humor production

➡ Core mnemonic: A2 = ↑Outflow + ↓Production

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💊 Key Medications

DrugSummary

Apraclonidine	Short-term use, post-laser IOP spike, tachyphylaxis common
Brimonidine	Long-term use, neuroprotective, available in 0.2% and 0.15%

 

 

 

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📊 IOP Reduction Over 3 Months

MedicationMean IOP Drop (mmHg)

Apraclonidine	-2.52
Brimonidine	-3.59

➡ Brimonidine is preferred for long-term α2 use

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✅ Summary

• α2 agonists are dual-action medications for glaucoma
• Brimonidine offers added neuroprotection, ideal for NTG
• Next post: Side effects of brimonidine