Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

Which agent is specifically used to treat glaucoma?

1. Miotics

2. Antivirals

3. Antihistamines

4. Topical steroids

The correct answer is: Miotics

Miotics are specifically used to treat glaucoma because they work by constricting the pupil and thereby increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye, which helps to reduce intraocular pressure. This is crucial in managing glaucoma, a condition characterized by elevated pressure that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. In contrast, antivirals are primarily used to treat viral infections and do not have a direct impact on eye pressure or glaucoma management. Antihistamines are typically used to alleviate allergy symptoms and have no therapeutic role in lowering intraocular pressure. Topical steroids are used to reduce inflammation in various conditions, but they can actually elevate intraocular pressure and are not indicated for treating glaucoma. Thus, the correct answer highlights the specific role that miotics play in the treatment of this ocular condition.