The eye is an important and delicate organ in the human body. Any disorder or disease affecting the eyes need proper diagnosis and treatment. Ophthalmic drugs play a vital role in treating various eye conditions. Let us understand the different classes of ophthalmic drugs in detail.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Inflammation is one of the most common causes behind many eye disorders like conjunctivitis, uveitis, iritis etc. Anti-inflammatory drugs help reduce inflammation and associated symptoms.

Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are very potent anti-inflammatory drugs used extensively to treat all inflammatory conditions of the eye. Examples include prednisolone, dexamethasone, loteprednol, rimexolone etc. They are available as eye drops, ointments or injections based on the condition.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs like ketorolac, bromfenac, diclofenac etc work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. They are used to treat ocular inflammation and postoperative pain and swelling. Ketorolac eye drops are commonly prescribed after cataract surgery.

Antibiotics

Bacterial infections of the eye must be promptly treated with appropriate antibiotics to prevent complications.

Quinolones: Fluoroquinolones like ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin are broad spectrum antibiotics used for treating external bacterial infections. They come as eye drops which are well tolerated.

Aminoglycosides: Gentamicin and tobramycin eye drops are used for treating severe external or internal ocular bacterial infections. They must be used under close medical supervision due to the risk of toxicity.

Macrolides: Azithromycin eye drops are effective against staphylococcal infections and trachoma.

Combinations: Combinations of antibiotics like tobramycin + dexamethasone, azithromycin + dexamethasone are usedss for managing bacterial infections along with inflammation.

 

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