Hazards of medical glaucoma therapy in the cataract patient.

Particular glaucoma drug hazards for cataract patients include miosis, exacerbation of lens opacity, pupillary block, and the development of systemic adrenergic or cholinergic adverse drug effects or interaction. Each available antiglaucoma drug needs to be selected in individual cases with the knowledge of side effects that are likely to develop. For the glaucoma-cataract patient, a glaucoma regimen need be designed to minimize visual impairment, to minimize exacerbation of cataract, and to prevent introduction of new ocular disorders. At the time of cataract surgery, the regimen should be reassessed to maximize a smooth operative course and minimize systemic operative and anesthetic complications.