Which drug is commonly administered for reducing intraocular pressure in glaucoma management?

Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analog that is commonly used to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in the management of glaucoma. It works by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway. This mechanism effectively lowers the IOP, making it a cornerstone in the treatment of various forms of glaucoma, particularly open-angle glaucoma. Latanoprost is often preferred due to its once-daily dosing, which improves patient compliance.

Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that reduces IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production, but it is generally used for short-term management or in acute situations rather than as a first-line treatment. Carbachol is a miotic agent that also helps reduce IOP by facilitating aqueous humor drainage, but it is less commonly used than latanoprost. Atropine, an anticholinergic drug, is actually contraindicated in glaucoma patients because it can increase IOP by causing pupil dilation and subsequent angle closure.

Latanoprost's effectiveness, convenience, and targeted action on IOP make it the first choice among the listed drugs for managing glaucoma.