Among the topical beta-blockers used in glaucoma, which agent possesses intrinsic sympathomimetic activity, giving it theoretically less bradycardia than other members of the class while retaining comparable IOP reduction?
- A Levobunolol
- B Carteolol ✓
- C Betaxolol
- D Timolol hemihydrate
Correct answer: B. Carteolol
Explanation
Carteolol is a non-selective beta-blocker with partial agonist (intrinsic sympathomimetic) activity, which blunts resting bradycardia compared with timolol or levobunolol. Betaxolol is cardioselective, chosen to reduce cardiopulmonary risk, but has no intrinsic agonist action. Note that intrinsic sympathomimetic activity does not confer safety in asthma: all topical non-selective beta-blockers remain contraindicated in obstructive airway disease regardless of this property.
Reference: Katzung's Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.