. Which of the antiglaucoma drug is contraindicated in sulfonamide hypersensitivity ?
## Core Concept
The question tests knowledge of antiglaucoma medications and their potential contraindications, specifically in patients with sulfonamide hypersensitivity. Antiglaucoma drugs aim to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) through various mechanisms. Sulfonamide hypersensitivity is a relevant consideration because some medications are structurally related to sulfonamides or have similar side chains, which can lead to cross-reactivity.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer, **D. Acetazolamide**, is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used to decrease intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients. Acetazolamide is a sulfonamide derivative, meaning it shares structural similarities with sulfonamide antibiotics. This similarity can lead to cross-reactivity in patients with a known hypersensitivity to sulfonamides, making acetazolamide contraindicated in such cases.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** This option is not specified, but if we consider common antiglaucoma medications, prostaglandin analogs (e.g., latanoprost) do not have a known association with sulfonamide hypersensitivity.
- **Option B:** Similarly, this option is unspecified, but beta-blockers (e.g., timolol) used in glaucoma treatment do not have a contraindication related to sulfonamide hypersensitivity.
- **Option C:** This option is also not specified, but alpha agonists (e.g., brimonidine) or miotics (e.g., pilocarpine) are not commonly associated with sulfonamide hypersensitivity.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that acetazolamide, a medication used for glaucoma and other conditions like altitude sickness and epilepsy, has a sulfonamide structure. This makes it crucial for clinicians to inquire about sulfonamide allergies before prescribing acetazolamide. A useful mnemonic or association is to link acetazolamide with its use in glaucoma and its structural relation to sulfonamides, highlighting the need for cautious prescribing.
## Correct Answer: D. Acetazolamide