Ophthalmic Pharmacology Essentials
NEET PG / Board Exam Pharmacology Pearls
| Drug | Class/Mechanism | Primary Clinical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Pilocarpine | Parasympathomimetic (M-agonist) | Acute angle-closure glaucoma, pupillary constriction. |
| Timolol | Beta-blocker (Non-selective) | Glaucoma (decreases aqueous production). |
| Atropine | Anticholinergic (M-antagonist) | Cycloplegic/mydriatic; treats ciliary spasm in uveitis. |
| Acyclovir | Antiviral (Guanoisine analog) | Herpes simplex keratitis. |
| Cyclopentolate | Anticholinergic (M-antagonist) | Diagnostic cycloplegic/mydriatic (shorter duration than atropine). |
Clinical Pharmacology Pearls
- Pilocarpine: Causes miosis and increases trabecular outflow. *Caution:* Can increase iris-lens contact, worsening pupil block in specific scenarios; contraindicated in anterior uveitis due to risk of synechiae.
- Timolol: *Contraindicated* in patients with asthma or COPD due to potential systemic beta-2 receptor blockade.
- Atropine vs. Cyclopentolate: Atropine has a very long duration of action (up to 7–10 days). Cyclopentolate is preferred for routine clinical refraction due to its shorter duration (approx. 24 hours).
- Acyclovir: Topical or oral; essential for treating epithelial keratitis. Note: Topical steroids are strictly *contraindicated* in active HSV epithelial keratitis as they promote viral replication and geographical ulceration.
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