What is a potential effect of using osmotic diuretics as antiglaucoma agents?

Osmotic diuretics, such as mannitol, are often used as antiglaucoma agents due to their ability to reduce intraocular pressure by increasing the osmolarity of the blood. This mechanism promotes the movement of water from the aqueous humor of the eye into the bloodstream, thereby lowering fluid levels in the eye and decreasing pressure.

The potential side effects associated with osmotic diuretics can include gastrointestinal disturbances. One such effect is diarrhea, which can occur as a response to changes in fluid balances and osmotic shifts that these agents induce. Since osmotic diuretics function by drawing water into the vascular system, they can alter the normal water retention mechanisms in the intestines, potentially leading to loose stools.

While nausea, blurred vision, and increased intraocular pressure might be considered adverse effects related to other medications or conditions, they are less directly associated with the mechanism and common side effects of osmotic diuretics specifically used for glaucoma management. Therefore, the side effect of diarrhea aligns with the pharmacological effects of osmotic diuretics on fluid balance.