Final answer:
Topical β-blockers for glaucoma work by decreasing the production of aqueous humor, therefore reducing intraocular pressure, which helps to manage glaucoma.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism of action of topical β-blockers used for glaucoma is to reduce intraocular pressure. These medications achieve this by decreasing the production of aqueous humor within the eye. Unlike pilocarpine, which increases aqueous outflow, β-blockers do not increase aqueous humor outflow nor do they block the effects of prostaglandins. Rather, they work by binding to β-adrenergic receptors in the ciliary body of the eye, which in turn reduces the amount of fluid or aqueous humor that is produced. This contributes to a decrease in intraocular pressure, which is essential for preventing the progression of glaucoma and potentially preserving vision.