Which classification of medications should a patient with glaucoma avoid?

Patients with glaucoma should avoid anticholinergics because these medications can cause pupil dilation (mydriasis), which increases intraocular pressure. For individuals with glaucoma, particularly those with narrow-angle glaucoma, this increase in pressure can lead to severe complications, including acute glaucoma episodes. Anticholinergics work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, leading to the relaxation of the ciliary muscle and the dilation of the pupil. This mechanism can exacerbate the existing condition of glaucoma.

In contrast, osmotic diuretics, beta-adrenergic blockers, and alpha-2 adrenergic blockers are used in the management of glaucoma because they either help reduce intraocular pressure or are less likely to increase it. Thus, understanding the specific effects of each drug class is crucial in providing safe treatment to patients with glaucoma.