5 Key Takeaways

• 1

  Topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) can lead to depressive symptoms in glaucoma patients, despite being locally acting medications.

• 2

  A study found that topical CAI use was associated with a 25–35% higher hazard of depression and nearly twofold likelihood of antidepressant initiation.

• 3

  Clinicians should be vigilant when prescribing CAIs, especially for patients with a history of depression, those on psychotropic medications, and older adults.

• 4

  Routine screening for neuropsychiatric symptoms in ophthalmology clinics is essential, particularly in the first months after initiating CAI treatment.

• 5

  The study emphasizes the need for a patient-centered approach in glaucoma care, considering both visual health and mental well-being.