If you’ve been told you have glaucoma, the first thing your doctor will likely mention is eye drops. Those drops are called glaucoma medications, and they work by lowering the pressure inside your eye. High pressure can damage the optic nerve, so keeping it in check is key to protecting your vision.
Prostaglandin analogs are the most common first‑line drops. Brands like latanoprost (Xalatan) and bimatoprost (Lumigan) increase fluid outflow, which brings pressure down. They’re used once a day, usually at night.
Beta blockers such as timolol (Timoptic) slow down fluid production. You’ll often hear they’re good for people who can’t tolerate prostaglandins. Some patients experience slower heart rate or mild fatigue, so let your doctor know if you feel anything odd.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., dorzolamide – Trusopt) also cut fluid creation. They come as drops and sometimes tablets for tougher cases. A dry mouth or metallic taste can happen, but it’s usually short‑lived.
Alpha agonists like brimonidine (Alphagan) do a bit of both—reduce production and boost outflow. They’re often added when one drug isn’t enough. Expect possible eye redness or mild headache at first.
Combination drops mix two medicines in one bottle, for example, dorzolamide/timolol (Cosopt). This can simplify a busy schedule, but watch for side effects from both ingredients.
First, wash your hands. Tilt your head back and pull down the lower eyelid to make a small pocket. Hold the bottle above the eye—don’t touch it—and squeeze one drop. Close your eyes gently for about 30 seconds; this lets the medicine soak in instead of draining away.
If you need more than one type, wait at least five minutes between drops. This prevents the first drop from washing out the second. Keep a log or set reminders on your phone so you never miss a dose.
Store drops as the label says—some need refrigeration, others stay at room temperature. If a bottle looks cloudy or has changed color, throw it out and get a fresh one.
Side effects are usually mild, but if you notice severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, or an allergic reaction (swelling, rash), call your doctor right away.
Regular check‑ups matter. Even if your pressure feels fine, the doctor will measure it and adjust meds as needed. Sometimes a new drug works better, or the dosage changes.
In short, glaucoma medications are all about keeping eye pressure low enough to protect sight. Knowing what each class does, how to use drops properly, and when to seek help can make managing glaucoma much easier.
