Effects
Carboanhydrase inhibitors on the one hand weakly diuretic, on the other hand lower intraocular pressure.
Mechanism of action
Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase. Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary body decreases aqueous humor secretion. This results in a decrease in intraocular pressure.
Indications
- Glaucoma, ocular hypertension
- Prophylaxis of altitude sickness
Other indications: Oedema, cerebral oedema, respiratory insufficiency with respiratory acidosis, epilepsy, pancreatitis, pancreatic fistulae.
Agents
Systemic:
- Acetazolamide (Diamox, Glaupax).
Eye drops:
- Dorzolamide (Trusopt)
- Brinzolamide (Azopt, generic).
