Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are primarily used in the treatment of glaucoma for their ability to reduce the amount of aqueous humor formed in the eye. Aqueous humor is the clear fluid produced by the ciliary body that fills the space in the eye and helps maintain intraocular pressure. By inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, these medications decrease the production of bicarbonate ions, which in turn reduces fluid secretion and ultimately lowers intraocular pressure.

This action is crucial for patients with glaucoma, as elevated intraocular pressure can lead to damage of the optic nerve and progression of the disease. Therefore, the effectiveness of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors lies in their role in decreasing aqueous production, making them an important therapeutic option in managing glaucoma.