What is the primary mechanism of action for glaucoma medications?

The primary mechanism of action for glaucoma medications is to decrease the production or increase the drainage of aqueous humor. Glaucoma is characterized by elevated intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Medications aimed at treating glaucoma work primarily by either reducing the amount of aqueous humor produced by the ciliary body or enhancing the outflow of aqueous humor through the trabecular meshwork or other drainage pathways.

By decreasing production, these medications reduce the volume of fluid that contributes to intraocular pressure. Likewise, medications that increase drainage promote a more efficient removal of aqueous humor, thus alleviating the pressure within the eye. This dual approach is critical in managing glaucoma and preserving patient vision.

The other options do not align with how glaucoma treatments function. For instance, decreasing blood flow to the retina is not a therapeutic goal in managing glaucoma and could be harmful. Increasing production of aqueous humor directly opposes the necessary reduction in pressure, and blocking nerve signals to the eye does not address the underlying fluid dynamics that cause elevated intraocular pressure.