Final answer:
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are a class of diuretics used for treating glaucoma and hypertension by decreasing the production of aqueous humor in the eye, which reduces intraocular pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The class of diuretics commonly used for both the treatment of hypertension and glaucoma is carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. These diuretics work differently from loop diuretics, which act on the loop of Henle and inhibit the reabsorption of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions, thereby increasing urine output. While loop diuretics like furosemide (Lasix) are effective in treating hypertension, it is the carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, such as acetazolamide, that are used in the management of glaucoma because they decrease the production of aqueous humor in the eye, thus reducing intraocular pressure.