Fudan University Journal of Medical Sciences 2012;39(1):86-93

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1672-8467.2012.01.017

Side effects of topical antiglaucoma drugs on the ocular surface: evaluation and challenge

Chuandi ZHOU

Keywords

antiglaucoma drugs; side effects; ocular surface; preservatives; prophylactic measures

Country

China

Language

Chinese

Abstract

Antiglaucoma medications are the first line therapy for the patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).As these intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering agents are used for spanning years,good tolerability and better compliance are desired.Long-term application of antiglaucoma medications may exert side effects on ocular surface,which includes tear film,conjunctiva and cornea.These side effects can be attributable to the preservatives contained in the eye drops,e.g.,benzalkonium chloride (BAK).Preservative-free eye drops,vitamin A palmitate,antimetabolites,and new drug deliveries such as nanoemulsions and cationic emulsions,can contribute to minimizing the side effects as well as promoting the compliance and continuation of medication therapy.