Miotics

• Generic/trade names: Carbachol (Carbastat, Carboptic, Isopto Carbachol, Miostat Intraocular), pilocarpine (Ocusert Pilo-40, Pilocar, Pilagan, Piloptic, Pilostat)
  
  
• How miotics work: These drugs cause the pupil to become much smaller in diameter and relieve pressure by increasing outflow of aqueous humor.
  
  
• Who should not use these medications
  
  
  • Persons allergic to pilocarpine
    
    
  • Persons with inflammation (swelling) of the eye
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• Use: Various dosage forms are available, including eyedrops, ocular inserts (inserted in the eye once a week), and ocular gel.
  
  
• Drug or food interactions: If administered with prostaglandin eyedrops, wait at least 10 minutes—preferably, 1 hour—between applying the two drugs.
  
  
• Side effects: Miotics should be used with caution in persons with corneal abrasion(s) and in those with a history of retinal detachment. An increase of blood in the eye may occur in individuals allergic to pilocarpine.