In central retinal artery occlusion, which medication may help to reduce intraocular pressure?

In central retinal artery occlusion, which medication may help to reduce intraocular pressure?

• A. Acetazolamide
• B. Timolol
• C. Mannitol
• D. Latanoprost

Answer: (B)

Lowering intraocular pressure helps improve retinal perfusion in central retinal artery occlusion by increasing the pressure gradient driving blood to the retina. Timolol, a topical beta-blocker, reduces production of aqueous humor at the ciliary body, producing a rapid drop in intraocular pressure with minimal systemic effects. This makes it a practical and quick option in the emergency setting to begin lowering pressure promptly. Acetazolamide and mannitol can also lower intraocular pressure, but they act systemically and come with more potential side effects and monitoring needs (electrolyte shifts, dehydration, renal concerns). Latanoprost lowers pressure by increasing uveoscleral outflow but has a slower onset, which is less suitable for urgent reduction in the acute setting.

Lowering intraocular pressure helps improve retinal perfusion in central retinal artery occlusion by increasing the pressure gradient driving blood to the retina. Timolol, a topical beta-blocker, reduces production of aqueous humor at the ciliary body, producing a rapid drop in intraocular pressure with minimal systemic effects. This makes it a practical and quick option in the emergency setting to begin lowering pressure promptly.

Acetazolamide and mannitol can also lower intraocular pressure, but they act systemically and come with more potential side effects and monitoring needs (electrolyte shifts, dehydration, renal concerns). Latanoprost lowers pressure by increasing uveoscleral outflow but has a slower onset, which is less suitable for urgent reduction in the acute setting.