Certified Paraoptometric Practice Test

Name a common medication prescribed for glaucoma.

1. Latanoprost

2. Timolol

3. Brimonidine

4. Acetazolamide

The correct answer is: Latanoprost

Latanoprost is a common medication prescribed for glaucoma because it belongs to a class of drugs known as prostaglandin analogs. These medications are effective in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing the outflow of trabecular meshwork fluid from the eye. By enhancing fluid drainage, latanoprost helps manage glaucoma and prevent damage to the optic nerve. This medication is typically favored due to its ease of use (once-daily dosing), and it has a favorable side effect profile for most patients. Additionally, latanoprost has been shown to be particularly effective for open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease. While other medications like timolol, brimonidine, and acetazolamide are also used to manage glaucoma, latanoprost is widely recognized in clinical practice for its efficacy and is often one of the first-line treatments prescribed by eye care professionals.