Drug Groups

approved

Description

Brinzolamide is a highly specific, non-competitive, reversible carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is an enzyme found in many tissues of the body including the eye. It catalyzes the reversible reaction involving the hydration of carbon dioxide and the dehydration of carbonic acid. In humans, carbonic anhydrase exists as a number of isoenzymes, the most active being carbonic anhydrase II (CA-II). Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary processes of the eye decreases aqueous humor secretion, presumably by slowing the formation of bicarbonate ions with subsequent reduction in sodium and fluid transport. The result is a reduction in intraocular pressure. Brinzolamide is indicated in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.

Indication

For the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.

Pharmacology

Used in the treatment of glaucoma, brinzolamide inhibits aqueous humor formation and reduces elevated intraocular pressure. Elevated intraocular pressure is a major risk factor in the pathogenesis of optic nerve damage and glaucomatous visual field loss. Brinzolamide can decrease intraocular pressure by approximately 16-19% in patients with elevated intraocular pressure.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Ophthalmic

Absorption

Absorbed into systemic circulation following topical ocular application

Half Life

111 days

Protein Binding

Approximately 60%.

References

External Links