Which statement is true about fixed combinations with beta blockers?

• A. They reduce IOP by 60%
• B. They reduce IOP by about 30%
• C. They never reach 20% reduction
• D. They are never used with PGAs

Answer: (B)

Fixed combinations that include a beta blocker lower intraocular pressure by about 30% on average because they combine two different ways of reducing IOP. The beta blocker decreases aqueous humor production, and the partner drug—often a prostaglandin analog or another agent—enhances outflow or adds further production reduction. This pairing produces an additive effect, giving a practical average around 30%, though the exact amount varies with baseline IOP and individual response. Some regimens can achieve somewhat higher reductions, but a dramatic 60% drop is not typical. It’s also common for these combinations to include prostaglandin analogs (latanoprost, travoprost, or bimatoprost), so the idea that fixed combinations with beta blockers are never used with PGAs is incorrect.