Pharmacology & Ocular Disease Treatment Flashcards
6 cards from real NBEO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Pharmacology & Ocular Disease Treatment flashcards as text
What class of medication is used as first-line treatment for glaucoma?
Answer: Prostaglandin analogs (e.g., latanoprost) that increase uveoscleral outflow to lower intraocular pressure
Prostaglandin analogs are the most commonly prescribed first-line glaucoma medications, reducing IOP by 25-33% through increased outflow of aqueous humor via the uveoscleral pathway, with once-daily dosing.
What are cycloplegic and mydriatic agents used for in optometry?
Answer: Cycloplegics paralyze accommodation for accurate refraction; mydriatics dilate the pupil for fundus examination
Cycloplegics (e.g., cyclopentolate) paralyze the ciliary muscle for objective refraction in children. Mydriatics (e.g., tropicamide) dilate the pupil for retinal examination. Some agents have both properties.
What are anti-VEGF injections used to treat?
Answer: Wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor that drives abnormal blood vessel growth
Anti-VEGF agents (ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab) are injected intravitreally to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in wet AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.
What is the treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis?
Answer: Topical broad-spectrum antibiotic eye drops or ointment such as fluoroquinolones or erythromycin
Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with topical antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, or erythromycin ointment). Broad-spectrum coverage is typically used empirically, with culture-guided therapy for severe or resistant cases.
What are the side effects of topical corticosteroid eye drops?
Answer: Elevated intraocular pressure (steroid-induced glaucoma), posterior subcapsular cataract formation, and increased risk of infection
Prolonged topical steroid use can elevate IOP (steroid response), accelerate cataract formation, impair wound healing, and increase susceptibility to infections (herpes simplex, fungal), requiring careful monitoring.
What is fluorescein staining used for in optometry?
Answer: To detect corneal epithelial defects, evaluate tear film stability (TBUT), and assess contact lens fitting
Fluorescein sodium dye (viewed with cobalt blue light) highlights corneal abrasions, ulcers, and epithelial irregularities, and is used for tear break-up time measurement and evaluating contact lens-cornea interaction.