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Glaucoma

Eye drops and medications used to lower eye pressure in glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the optic nerve in one or both eyes, potentially leading to vision loss. The most common type is open-angle glaucoma, but there are other types, such as angle-closure glaucoma and congenital glaucoma. Regular eye exams are important, as glaucoma often has no symptoms initially.

Why is Glaucoma Important?

If left untreated, glaucoma can eventually lead to blindness. Treatments that lower eye pressure can help slow the progression of the disease and protect your vision.

What Causes Glaucoma?

The exact cause of glaucoma is not fully understood, but it often occurs when fluid pressure inside the eye rises, damaging the optic nerve. Some people may develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure.

How is Glaucoma Treated?

While there is no cure for glaucoma, it can usually be controlled with early treatment. Treatments may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, and surgery. A combination of these methods may be used to lower eye pressure.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience sudden symptoms such as intense eye pain, blurry vision, red eyes, or nausea, seek immediate medical attention. Regular eye exams are recommended, especially if you are at higher risk for glaucoma.

Medications used to treat Glaucoma

Several classes of medication treat glaucoma. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:

Prostaglandin Analogs

These medications increase the outflow of fluid from the eye, which helps lower intraocular pressure.

Compare prices: Bimatoprost, Latanoprost, Travoprost Bak Free

Beta Blockers

Beta blockers reduce the production of fluid in the eye, thereby lowering intraocular pressure.

Compare prices: Betaxolol Hcl, Timolol Maleate, Levobunolol Hcl

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors

These drugs decrease the production of fluid in the eye, helping to lower intraocular pressure.

Compare prices: Acetazolamide, Brinzolamide, Dorzolamide Hcl

Alpha Agonists

Alpha agonists work by both decreasing fluid production and increasing fluid outflow from the eye.

Compare prices: Brimonidine Tartrate, Clonidine Hcl, Brimonidine Tartrate Timolol

Cholinergic Agents

These medications increase fluid outflow by contracting the muscles in the eye, which opens the drainage angle.

Compare prices: Pilocarpine Hcl

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Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

Often, there are no symptoms at first. Over time, you may lose your peripheral (side) vision, making it seem like you are looking through a tunnel.

What should I do if I have sudden symptoms?

If you have sudden symptoms of intense eye pain, blurry vision, red eyes, or nausea, you need to go to your eye care provider or an emergency room right away.

How is glaucoma diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye exam can diagnose glaucoma, which includes a dilated eye exam, visual field testing, and tonometry to measure eye pressure.

Who is at higher risk for glaucoma?

You are at higher risk if you are Black or African American and over age 40, over age 60 (especially if Hispanic or Latino), or have a family history of glaucoma.

Can glaucoma be prevented?

There is no way to prevent glaucoma, but regular eye exams can help find it early before it affects your vision.

Compare prices for glaucoma medications

32 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.

Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.

Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

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