In addition to reducing IOP, what is another significant effect of beta blockers on the eye?

Beta blockers are primarily utilized in the management of glaucoma due to their ability to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). In addition to this effect, beta blockers significantly decrease aqueous humor production from the ciliary body. By reducing the secretion of aqueous humor, beta blockers effectively lower the overall pressure within the eye, which is beneficial for patients with conditions like open-angle glaucoma.

The mechanism includes the blockade of beta-adrenergic receptors, which play a crucial role in the stimulation of aqueous humor production. With reduced stimulation, there is a corresponding decrease in the volume of fluid produced, leading to a decrease in IOP.

This action is distinct from effects related to pupil size or tear production. Beta blockers do not cause an increase in pupil size; instead, they typically do not have a direct influence on the dilator or sphincter muscles of the iris responsible for pupil size. Furthermore, while their influence on ocular blood flow is often a topic of interest, beta blockers do not universally lead to a reduction in ocular blood flow; their effects can vary depending on the specific agent and individual patient characteristics. Lastly, beta blockers are not known to increase tear production; other classes of medications, such as cholinergics, are more commonly associated with increasing tear