OPT 411
Ocular Pharmacology
1 Unit(s) (LH 15)
Course Description
At the end of the OPT 411 (Ocular Pharmacology) course, students should be able to:
1. discuss concept needed in writing and interpreting drug prescription;
2. describe the unique features of the ocular tissues that impact the pharmacokinetics and
pharmacodynamics of drugs;
3. identify the different classes of ophthalmic drugs with examples, mechanism of action,
indication(s), side/adverse effects, and dosing;
4. identify ocular manifestations of the side/adverse effects of systemically administered drugs;
5. discuss basic principles and precautions in the use of ophthalmic diagnostic drugs
6. describe route of administration of ophthalmic drugs and the different formulations of
ophthalmic drugs; and
7. state basic concept of prescription writing and ophthalmic medications.
Course Outline
Principles of ocular pharmacology and prescription writing. Adrenergic: agonist and antagonist.
Cholinergic: agonist and antagonist. Anti-glaucoma drugs. Ocular (topical/local) anesthetics.
Choice and administration of diagnostic and prophylactic ophthalmic drugs. Anti-allergic drugs;
Anti-inflammatory drugs; Anti-infective preparations. Optometric examinations using diagnostic
aids. Examination under drugs: interpretation and allowances. Precautions and adverse effects
from use of ophthalmic drugs. Therapeutics Clinical work is included.