Health Library Hyperosmotics for GlaucomaFrom Healthwise

These medications are used in liquid form or given through a needle into a vein (intravenous).

Hyperosmotics draw water out of the fluid (aqueous humor) inside the eyes, decreasing the amount of fluid inside the eyes.

Hyperosmotics are usually used in emergencies to rapidly reduce pressure in the eyes, most often during episodes of closed-angle glaucoma. These medications can also be used to lower the pressure in the eyes before or after glaucoma surgery.

These medications dry out the eye by changing the chemical balance in the bloodstream, causing water to be drawn out of the eye. Decreasing the fluid in the eye results in decreased pressure in the eye. However, this effect does not last long.

Possible serious side effects of hyperosmotic medications include:

• Heart failure.
• Bleeding within the brain.
• Impaired kidney function.

Less serious side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Headache.
• Confusion.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Glycerin by mouth should be used cautiously in people who have diabetes because it can raise blood sugar levels.

These medications are not used for long-term treatment of glaucoma. They are used in emergency situations when pressure in the eyes needs to be reduced rapidly. Because these medications have serious side effects, people are monitored closely while they are being treated with these medications.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Jeannette Curtis	Last Updated: May 23, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.