Treatment:
- topical timolol 0.5% - non-selective beta-blocker that reduces aqueous humor production. Systemic absorption and adverse effects may occur.
- topical pilocarpine 1% - 2% - stimulates cholinergic receptors in eye causing miosis which decreases resistance to aqueous humor outflow
- topical alpha-2 agonist (apraclonidine 1.0%) - reduces aqueous humor formation
- IV acetazolamide - carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that decreases aqueous humor production. Don't use in patients with sulfa allergy.
- ophthalmologic consultation for definitive treatment
Note: these treatments do not necessarily apply to primary open angle glaucoma, secondary open angle glaucoma or secondary angle closure glaucoma.
Source
Marx: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice, 6th ed.