Adrenergic drugs

effect

These substances in the form of eye drops work via receptors that are also used by adrenaline. Accordingly, they cause all the effects of adrenaline, from racing heart, high blood pressure to sleep disorders and much more. pass. In addition, the adrenergics also mediate a reduced production of aqueous humor and an accelerated drainage of the aqueous humor. With regard to these two mechanisms running in parallel, there can be a particularly rapid reduction in intraocular pressure.

application areas

Due to the rapid reduction in the aqueous humor and thus the lowering of internal pressure, the adrenergic drugs are often administered in glaucoma, especially in the case of an attack of glaucoma, which requires particularly rapid normalization of pressure. Substances that would be used: Dipivefrin (Propine) and epinephrine (Epinephrine). The eye drops should be taken 2-3 times a day. The washout time is 2-3 weeks.

Side effects

In addition to the adrenaline-like effects such as a rapid pulse and high blood pressure, it can also lead to increased hair growth (hypertrichosis) and a allergy come. Furthermore, patients under adrenergic treatment sometimes complain of insomnia, restlessness and tremors.

Contraindications

In patients suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system, e.g. High blood pressure, Atrial fibrillation or suffer from a fast pulse, adrenergics should not be used and alternative preparations should be used instead.