What is the stated advantage of topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors in glaucoma management?

• A. They are rarely used
• B. They do not affect IOP
• C. They are only for primary glaucoma
• D. They can be used for PRIMARY AND SECONDARY cases

Answer: (D)

Topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors lower intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humor production in the ciliary body, through inhibition of carbonic anhydrase. Because this mechanism isn’t specific to a single glaucoma type, these drops can be used across a wide range of cases. They’re useful in both primary glaucoma (where lowering production helps control IOP) and secondary glaucomas (where the driving factor may still be increased production or where other treatments are not suitable). That versatility—lowering production in various glaucomas—is the stated advantage.