A patient came to casualty for acute bronchial asthma after treatment for glaucoma. The probable drug may be
**Core Concept**
The question is testing the patient's history of glaucoma treatment and its potential side effect on bronchial asthma. The underlying pharmacological principle involves the use of beta-blockers in glaucoma treatment and their contraindication in patients with bronchial asthma.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Beta-blockers, such as timolol, are commonly used in glaucoma treatment to decrease intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humor production. However, these medications can also cause bronchoconstriction by blocking beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, leading to acute bronchial asthma in susceptible individuals. This is because beta-2 receptors play a crucial role in bronchodilation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not relevant to the scenario, as it does not relate to glaucoma treatment or asthma pathophysiology.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because corticosteroids are actually used in the treatment of bronchial asthma, not as a cause. They reduce inflammation and prevent airway constriction.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because anticholinergics, such as ipratropium, are used in the treatment of bronchial asthma to prevent airway constriction.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not typically used in glaucoma treatment and are not a common cause of bronchial asthma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When treating patients with glaucoma, it is essential to consider their potential risk of bronchial asthma, especially if they have a history of asthma or are using beta-blockers.
**Correct Answer:** C. Beta-blockers, such as timolol, can cause bronchoconstriction in susceptible individuals, leading to acute bronchial asthma.