Efficacy and Safety of the Travoprost Intraocular Implant in Reducing Topical IOP-Lowering Medication Burden in Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension.

PURPOSE: A randomized, double-masked, multicenter, phase 2 trial to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of travoprost intraocular implant, an extended-release drug delivery system designed to provide uninterrupted sustained intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering therapy, thereby reducing patient treatment burden and improving adherence with IOP-lowering medication. METHODS: Patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension were administered a fast-eluting implant (FE implant, n = 51) and received twice-daily (BID) placebo eye drops, a slow-eluting (SE implant, n = 54) and received BID placebo eye drops, or underwent a sham surgical procedure and received BID timolol 0.5% (n = 49). IOP was measured at baseline, day 1-2, day 10, week 4, week 6, month 3, and every 3 months thereafter through 36 months. Efficacy was evaluated by mean change from 8:00 AM unmedicated baseline IOP through month 36, and the percentage of patients receiving the same or fewer topical IOP-lowering medications as at screening (pre-study). Safety was evaluated by adverse events and ophthalmic parameters. RESULTS: Clinically and statistically relevant IOP-lowering treatment effects were observed through month 36 after a single administration of the travoprost implant compared with BID timolol with mean IOP reductions ranging from 7.6 to 8.8 mmHg for the FE implant group, from 7.3 to 8.0 mmHg for the SE implant group, and from 7.3 to 7.9 for the timolol group at the 8:00 AM timepoint (P < 0.0001 for all treatment groups at all visits). At months 12, 24, and 36, a greater percentage of FE and SE implant patients versus timolol patients were well controlled on the same or fewer topical IOP-lowering medications compared with screening with 63 and 69% for the FE and SE implants groups, respectively, versus 45% for the timolol group at month 36. The safety profile of the implant was favorable; there were no dislodgements, no explantations, no adverse events of conjunctival hyperemia or periorbital fat atrophy, no discontinuations due to study eye adverse events, nor any serious adverse events in the study eye. Comparable changes from baseline in corneal endothelial cell counts were observed in the three treatment groups over the 36 months. CONCLUSION: The travoprost intraocular implant demonstrated robust IOP-lowering and substantially reduced topical IOP-lowering medication burden for up to 36 months following a single administration, while maintaining a favorable safety profile. The travoprost intraocular implant promises to be a meaningful addition to the interventional glaucoma armamentarium by addressing the key shortcomings of topical IOP-lowering medications, including low adherence and topical side effects while controlling IOP for up to 36 months. TRIAL REGISTRY: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02754596 registered 28 April 2016.

Luteal tissue blood flow and side effects of horse-recommended luteolytic doses of dinoprost and cloprostenol in donkeys.

This study assessed luteolysis and side effects in jennies receiving standard horse-recommended doses of cloprostenol and dinoprost. Sixteen cycles of eight jennies were randomly assigned in a sequential crossover design to receive dinoprost (5 mg, i.m.) and cloprostenol (0.25 mg, i.m.) at 5-d post-ovulation. B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography were employed to assess luteal tissue size and blood flow before (-15 min and 0h) and after (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 24, and 48h) administering PGF2α. Immunoreactive progesterone concentrations were assayed at similar timepoints via RIA. Side effects such as sweating, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea were scored at 15-min-intervals for 1h after PGF2α. Data normality was assessed with the Shapiro-Wilk's test. Luteal tissue size and blood flow were analyzed using PROC-MIXED and post-hoc by Tukey. Non-parametric tests analyzed side effect variables. The luteal blood flow increased overtime by 27% at 45 min and peaked by 49% at 3 h for dinoprost, and conversely, it increased by 14% at 30 min and peaked at 39% at 5h for cloprostenol (P<0.05). Luteal blood flow was reduced by 50%, 25%, and 10% on both groups at 8, 12, and 24h (P<0.05). Immunoreactive progesterone concentrations decreased in 0.5h for dinoprost and 1h for cloprostenol and gradually decreased by 48h (P<0.05). Dinoprost induced greater sudoresis scores, while cloprostenol resulted in greater abdominal discomfort and diarrhea scores (P<0.05). In conclusion, dinoprost and cloprostenol effectively induced luteolysis with distinct side effects; this could guide practitioners' case selection to use one or another PGF2α.

Intraocular Pressure and Eyedrop Usage Reduction with Intracameral Bimatoprost Implant.

Purpose: Sustained intraocular drug delivery devices are being developed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) and improve adherence in patients with glaucoma. The purpose of this study was to assess the IOP and eyedrop usage reduction effects of intracameral bimatoprost implants. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 46 eyes from 38 patients who received an intracameral implant containing 10 µg of bimatoprost as a replacement or addition to their existing eyedrop regimen and investigated IOP, eyedrop usage, and adverse effects. Results: Patients were followed for an average of 274 ± 104 (mean ± standard deviation) days after implant. Mean reduction in IOP (mmHg) at 3 months ±30 days, 6 months ±60 days, and 12 months ±90 days postoperation compared to baseline was 1.26 ± 2.53 (P = 0.002), 0.93 ± 4.71 (P = 0.098), and 1.35 ± 5.24 (P = 0.053), respectively. Reduction in eyedrops at 3 months ±30 days, 6 months ±60 days, and 12 months ±90 days postoperation compared to baseline were 0.62 ± 0.49 (P < 0.001), 0.55 ± 0.73 (P < 0.001), and 0.51 ± 0.71 (P < 0.001), respectively. Fifteen eyes (32.6%) experienced implant failure, defined as either restarting IOP-lowering eyedrops or undergoing surgical intervention, at an average of 260 ± 122 days after implant. Conclusions: While some patients eventually experienced implant failure, intracameral bimatoprost implants may result in fewer adverse reactions and successfully lower IOP and eyedrop burden over a longer period than previously reported.

Single Administration of Bimatoprost Implant: Effects on 24-Hour Intraocular Pressure and 1-Year Outcomes.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of a single bimatoprost implant administration on 24-hour intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering at 8 weeks, and 1-year IOP-lowering efficacy and safety outcomes. DESIGN: Multicenter, open-label, 12-month, phase 3b study (NCT04285580). PARTICIPANTS: Adults with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. METHODS: Participants (n = 31) received 10-µg bimatoprost implant in the study eye on day 1; IOP (sitting and/or supine) was measured with pneumatonometry every 2 hours throughout a 24-hour period at baseline and week 8. IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) at hour 0 (8 am ± 1 hour) at baseline, weeks 8 and 16, and months 6, 9, and 12. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary endpoint was the week-8 hour-matched change from baseline in habitual position IOP over 24 hours assessed with pneumatonometry. Hour 0 IOP change from baseline measured with GAT in study eyes that received no additional (rescue) IOP-lowering treatment, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), and central corneal endothelial cell density (CECD) were evaluated through 12 months. RESULTS: The mean (standard deviation [SD]) baseline IOP at hour 0 was 24.2 (2.70) mmHg and 25.3 (7.15) mmHg by GAT and pneumatonometry, respectively. Pneumatonometer measurements of IOP taken over 24 hours at week 8 with the participant in habitual position (sitting from 8 am to 10 pm, supine from 12 am to 6 am) showed consistent IOP lowering through the day and night and reduced fluctuation in IOP. The range in IOP measurements over 24 hours was reduced from baseline by a mean (SD) of -1.6 (2.98) mmHg. All 31 bimatoprost implant-treated participants completed the 12-month study; 23 (74%) required no rescue IOP-lowering treatment. The mean (SD) IOP reduction from baseline at month 12 in nonrescued eyes was -4.3 (3.35) mmHg. The most common TEAE was conjunctival hyperemia (incidence 35.5%, 11/31). No implant-treated eye had a ≥ 15% loss in CECD from baseline. CONCLUSIONS: A single intracameral administration of the bimatoprost implant lowered IOP in the habitual position consistently throughout the day and night at week 8. The majority of participants continued to have reduced IOP for 1 year without additional therapy. The 1-year safety profile was favorable. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S): Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.

Prostaglandin analogs in ophthalmology.

Glaucoma is a major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) is currently the only approach to prevent further optic nerve head damage. Pharmacotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for glaucoma patients. In recent years, a significant milestone in glaucoma treatment has been a transition to prostaglandin analogs (PGAs) as the first line of drugs. The rapid shift from traditional ß-blockers to PGAs is primarily due to their excellent efficacy, convenient once-a-day usage, better diurnal control of IOP, and systemic safety profiles. This review article aims to provide information regarding the various PGAs in practice and also the newer promising drugs.

A randomized clinical trial comparing three fixed combinations of bimatoprost with timolol in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and safety of two fixed combination, preservative-free eye drops (bimatoprost 0.01% in combination with either timolol 0.1% or 0.5%) in a gel formulation, with bimatoprost 0.03%/timolol 0.5% in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). METHODS: Phase II, randomized, investigator-masked, multicenter, 3-arm parallel group (Eudract No. 2017-002823-46). Eighty-six patients aged ≥18 years with OAG or OHT, with intraocular pressure (IOP) initially controlled for at least 6 months by a combination therapy of a dual prostaglandin and timolol or insufficiently controlled by first-line monotherapy were included. Patients were randomized to receive T4030a (bimatoprost 0.01%/timolol 0.1%; N = 29), T4030c (bimatoprost 0.01%/timolol 0.5%; N = 29) or bimatoprost 0.03%/timolol 0.5% (N = 28), administered once daily in the evening for 12 weeks. Primary endpoint was defined as change in IOP from day 1 to week 12 measured at 08:00 (±1 h). Further efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetic endpoints were assessed as secondary outcomes. RESULTS: The mean change in IOP from baseline to week 12 was -9.8 ± 2.1 mmHg for T4030a, -10.1 ± 2.5 mmHg for T4030c and -10.0 ± 2.8 mmHg for bimatoprost 0.03%/timolol 0.5%. All treatments were well tolerated with no safety issues identified in any group. In patients treated with T4030a, the systemic concentration of timolol was significantly lower after 12 weeks than in patients treated with T4030c or bimatoprost 0.03%/timolol0.5%. CONCLUSIONS: These study results suggest that the preservative-free ophthalmic formulation of T4030a (bimatoprost 0.01%/timolol 0.1%) can be regarded as a useful tool in the therapeutic management of OAG and OHT.

Effects of topical prostaglandin therapy on corneal layers thickness in primary open-angle glaucoma patients using anterior segment optical coherence tomography.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of latanoprost, bimatoprost, and travoprost eye drops and their preservatives on each corneal layer thickness in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 79 eyes of 79 patients with POAG who were receiving prostaglandin therapy. Patients were divided into three subgroups according to monotherapy with latanoprost, bimatoprost, and travoprost during a mean of 43.14 ± 19.12 months follow-up period. In addition, the central corneal epithelial thickness (CET), central corneal stromal thickness (CST), and total central corneal thickness (CCT) were measured by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) at baseline and every six months after treatment initiation at each visit between 9 and 12 o'clock in the morning. Furthermore, intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured with Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) after AS-OCT measurements at each visit. RESULTS: All three groups were not significantly different in age, gender, follow-up period, and mean intraocular pressure values (p > 0.05 for all). The reduction of CCT in the latanoprost, bimatoprost, and travoprost groups was 6.53 ± 3.17, 18.59 ± 8.42, and 10.1 ± 1.13 µm, respectively. The decrease in CST values was 4.65 ± 1.54, 15.84 ± 7.47, 9.69 ± 1.45 µm, and CET values were 1.88 ± 1.66, 2.75 ± 0.73, 0.41 ± 0.54 µm in all groups, respectively. A statistically significant thinning was observed in all corneal layers (p < 0.05) except the CST values in the latanoprost group and CET values in the travoprost group. However, no significant difference was found in the average reduction of CET, CST, and CCT values among the three groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Topical treatment with latanoprost, bimatoprost, and travoprost affects each layer of the cornea separately according to the active and protective substances contained in these eye drops. On the other hand, the thinning effect on the corneal layers was similar in these three drugs because there was no significant difference between the three groups in the total amount of thinning of the corneal layers during the follow-up period.

Effect of prostaglandin analogues on central corneal thickness in patients with glaucoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis.

The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of prostaglandin analogues (PGA) on central corneal thickness (CCT) in patients with glaucoma. Key electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving the CCT effects of prostaglandin use for glaucoma. Primary outcome measures were the mean difference in the CCT measurement from baseline to the last available assessment. Intraocular pressure and other corneal changes were recorded as secondary. Efficacy estimates were measured by their weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI's) by using the random-effects model for primary and secondary outcomes Trial sequential analysis was used to determine if the current evidence was sufficient and conclusive. Eight RCTs met our inclusion criteria. A total of 879 patients were included. The overall effect showed that PGA's had a significant CCT lowering effect (WMD = -7.04, 95%CI: -10.07 to -4.00, P < 0.00001). We pooled results of 5 RCT's on Travoprost (WMD = -10.44, 95%CI: -16.80 to -4.08, P = 0.001), seven trials on Latanoprost (WMD = -4.73, 95% CI: -9.70 to 0.25, P = 0.06), and three trials on Bimatoprost (WMD = -11.88, 95%CI: -21.03 to -2.73, P = 0.01). The WMD across groups in >6 months of PGA use was -11.37 (95%CI: -17.17 to -5.58, P = 0.0001), and in <6 months of PGAs group was -8.35 (95% CI: -12.01 to -4.69, P < 0.00001), suggesting a longitudinal effect of PGAs on CCT. In conclusion, Bimatoprost and Travoprost caused a statistically significant reduction in the thickness of central cornea. Though only a few studies were included, the narrow confidence intervals and adequate sample size suggest that these findings are valid.

Proposal of a simple grading system integrating cosmetic and tonometric aspects of prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy.

ABSTRACT: The distribution of prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy (PAP) graded using the Shimane University PAP Grading System (SU-PAP) among glaucoma/ocular hypertension subjects using a topical FP or EP2 receptor agonist was reported. A 460 consecutive 460 Japanese subjects (211 men, 249 women; mean age ±â€Šstandard deviation, 69.9 ±â€Š14.5 years) who had used either a FP agonist (0.005% latanoprost, 0.0015% tafluprost, 0.004% travoprost, 0.03% bimatoprost, or fixed combinations of these) or EP2-agonist (0.002% omidenepag isopropyl) for more than 3 months in at least 1 eye were retrospectively enrolled. Age, sex, prostaglandin, intraocular pressure (IOP) measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry (IOPGAT) and iCare rebound tonometry (IOPRBT), difference between IOPGAT and IOPRBT (IOPGAT-RBT), PAP grade, and PAP grading items were compared among groups stratified by PAP grade or prostaglandins. Of the study patients, 114 (25%) had grade 0 (no PAP), 174 (38%) grade 1 (superficial cosmetic PAP), 141 (31%) grade 2 (deep cosmetic PAP), and 31 (7%) grade 3 (tonometric PAP). The IOPGAT was significantly higher in grade 3 (17.5 ±â€Š5.4 mm Hg) than grades 0 (15.0 ±â€Š5.1 mm Hg, P = .032) and 1 (14.5 ±â€Š4.2 mm Hg, P = .008), and the IOPGAT-RBT was significantly higher in grade 3 (5.8 ±â€Š3.2 mm Hg) than the other 3 grades (1.3-1.9 mm Hg, P < .001 for all comparisons); the IOPRBT was equivalent among the 4 grades. The PAP grade was significantly higher associated with travoprost (2.0 ±â€Š0.8) and bimatoprost (2.0 ±â€Š0.7) than latanoprost (1.0 ±â€Š0.8, P < .001 for both comparisons) and tafluprost (1.0 ±â€Š0.7, P < .001 for both comparisons), but significantly lower associated with omidenepag (0.0 ±â€Š0.0, P < .001 for all comparisons) than the other 4 prostaglandins. Multivariate analyses showed older age (standard ß = 0.11), travoprost (0.53, referenced by latanoprost) and bimatoprost (0.65) were associated with higher PAP grades, while tafluprost (-0.18) and omidenepag (-0.73) were associated with lower PAP grades. The PAP graded using SU-PAP reflects the degree of overestimation of the IOPGAT and different severities of PAP among the different prostaglandins. SU-PAP, the grade system constructed based on the underlining mechanisms of PAP, is a simple grading system for PAP that is feasible for use in a real-world clinical situation.

Bilateral choroidal effusion after selective laser trabeculoplasty. / Desprendimiento coroideo seroso bilateral tras trabeculoplastia selectiva láser.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is an effective treatment to treat open-angle glaucoma with a low risk of complications. The case is presented of a 73 year-old woman with uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma who underwent selective laser trabeculoplasty in both eyes and developed bilateral choroidal effusion.

The PGF2α agonists luprostiol and d-cloprostenol reliably induce luteolysis in luteal phase mares without evoking clinical side effects or a stress response.

In the present study we have evaluated a possible stress reaction in response to two different PGF2α analogs-luprostiol and D-cloprostenol--and their effects on estrous cycle characteristics. In a cross-over-design eight mares received in alternating order either luprostiol (Treatment LUP; 3.75 mg im), D-cloprostenol (Treatment CLO; 22.5µg im) or saline (Treatment CON; NaCl 0.9% 0.5ml im) on day 8 after ovulation. Injection of either LUP or CLO, but not of CON resulted in a significant decline of progesterone concentration in plasma to baseline concentrations within two days (time: p<0.001, treatment: p<0.01, time × treatment: p<0.05). The treatment to ovulation interval was significantly shorter in LUP and CLO than in CON cycles (LUP: 9.4 ± 0.4 d; CLO: 9.4 ± 1.3 d; CON: 16.1 ± 0.8 d; p<0.001). Injection of either LUP or CLO, but not of CON significantly increased salivary cortisol concentration (immediately before injection: CON 1.3 ± 0.2, LUP 1.4 ± 0.3, CLO 1.4 ± 0.3 ng/ml; 60 min after injection: CON 1.0 ± 0.3, LUP 8.0 ± 1.4, CLO 4.2 ± 0.7 ng/ml; time: p<0.01, treatment: p<0.001, time × treatment: p<0.001). Heart rate decreased over time (p<0.05) independent of treatment and no changes in heart rate variability were detected. Injection of the PGF2α analogs CLO and LUP reliably induced luteolysis and apart from a transient increase in salivary cortisol concentration no signs of a physiological stress response or apparent side effects occurred.

Periocular changes in topical bimatoprost and latanoprost use.

BACKGROUND/AIM: To evaluate the periocular changes due to topical bimatoprost and latanoprost use and to investigate their effects on the lacrimal drainage system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All participants (69 eyes of 43 patients, 52 eyes of 26 controls) were classified into three groups: bimatoprost (0.03%) users, latanoprost (0.005%) users, and healthy controls. Each patient was examined before prostaglandin therapy, and then at the first, third, sixth, and twelfth month of therapy. Palpebral fissure height, upper eyelid crease, and levator function were measured, and lacrimal system drainage irrigation was performed. Periocular hyperpigmentation and upper eyelid sulcus were also examined. RESULTS: No significant change was identified in palpebral fissure height or levator function in any group. However, in upper eyelid crease, among bimatoprost users, a statistically significant increase was observed when compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Patients with skin type II and III, in bimatoprost users, and patients with skin type III, in latanoprost users, had statistically significant hyperpigmentation (P < 0.001) after the third month of therapy. During follow-up, no lacrimal drainage system obstruction was seen. CONCLUSION: Topical bimatoprost therapy causes more periocular changes than latanoprost therapy. Thus, in unilateral cases, patients should be well informed about these probable changes before therapy.

The fixed combination efficacy assessment in patients with secondary neovascular glaucoma and diabetes mellitus.

PURPOSE: To assess IOP-lowering efficacy of bimatoprost/timolol fixed combination (Ganfort®) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and uncontrolled secondary neovascular glaucoma (NG). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty patients (51 eyes) with uncontrolled secondary neovascular glaucoma and diabetes mellitus were enrolled in the study. All patients with an uncontrolled IOP have been proposed to switch current IOP-lowering therapy to Ganfort®. In case target IOP level was not reached filtration surgery was recommended. Ganfort® administration - once a day in the morning. RESULTS: IOP-lowering has been observed in all patients when switched to Ganfort®. Mean IOP level was almost 3-x lower versus baseline in 72.5% of patients (37 eyes). The patients achieved target IOP of 15-17 mmHg. As a result, no surgical intervention was required. Significant IOP-lowering has been observed in another group of patients (14 eyes, 27.5 %) nevertheless due to glaucoma progression, these patients are still subjected to surgical treatment. CONCLUSION: IOP-lowering fixed combination Ganfort® (Allergan) can be used in patients with secondary neovascular glaucoma and diabetes mellitus as a drug of choice to control the IOP level. Even in cases when target IOP is not achieved, Ganfort® can be administered in pre-operative period and helps to reduce postoperative complications.

Influence of local application of glaucoma medications-travoprost eye drops on patients' tear film function.

This study discussed about the influence of local application of glaucoma medications -- travoprost eye drops to patients' tear film function. We selected 24 patients, 45 eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma or intraocular hypertension. All of the patients topically used the travoprost eye drops for one time every night. After and before the pharmacy, we proceeded 1, 2, 3 mo lines symptom score and Schirmer's test (St), corneal fluorescein staining (FL), breakup time of tear film (BUT). Average value of symptom score and FL of all the patients before pharmacy were 1.32 ± 1. 55, 0.42 ± 0.68, and 1, 2, 3mo after pharmacy were respectively 2.68 ± 1.59, 0.96 ± 0.81; 4.97 ± 1.62, 1.46 ± 0.62; 6.21 ± 1.33, 1.88 ± 0.44. Symptom score and FL of 1, 2, 3 mo patients after pharmacy were all prominent higher than it before pharmacy (P=0.00), and it gradually increased. The average value of patients symptom BUT and St before pharmacy were (7.71 ± 0.87s), (8.32 ± 2.63mm /5min) and 1, 2, 3 mo after pharmacy were respectively (6.93 ± 1.17s), (7.69 ± 3. 33mm /5min); (5.48 ± 1.29s), (6.79 ± 2.94mm /5min); (4.33 ± 1.83s), (5.98 ± 3.11mm/5min). BUT and St value after pharmacy were prominent all lower than the level before pharmacy (P=0.00). And it gradually reduced. Short-term use of travoprost eye drops would aggravate the corneal irritation of patients, and decrease the tear film stability and tear secretion.

Prostaglandin analogue-induced pigmentation of the skin of the nasal septum and nasal alae in a glaucoma patient.

PURPOSE: To present a case of topical prostaglandin analogue-induced skin pigmentation in a location previously never reported, with a differential diagnostic significance. CASE REPORT: An 83-year-old man successfully treated for primary open-angle glaucoma of both eyes with the bimatoprost/timolol fixed combination for 6 years reported increased pigmentation of the skin of the nasal septum and alae. According to his report, the darkened skin area was not present when he was a young or middle-aged man. The patient had noted periocular pigmentation and deepening of the upper lid sulcus on both sides, which developed during the years of his bimatoprost/timolol treatment. Dermatology consultation excluded any nevus, malignancy, or other pathology as a cause of the pigmentation. The otorhinolaryngology consultation failed to identify any pathologic condition in the nasal cavity, but described mild chronic senile rhinitis. CONCLUSIONS: The acquired pigmentation of the skin of the nasal septum and alae in our patient represents a new form of cutaneous pigmentation induced by topical prostaglandin analogue therapy, which may have differential diagnostic significance in clinical practice. We speculate that the senile rhinitis of the patient increased the exposure of the nasal skin to the prostaglandin analogue solution drained via the nasolacrimal duct, and could therefore play a role in the development of skin pigmentation in this location.

Promising alternative clinical uses of prostaglandin F2α analogs: beyond the eyelashes.

Prostaglandin F2α analogs, commonly prescribed for glaucoma treatment, have been shown to induce side effects such as cutaneous hypertrichosis and hyperpigmentation. Therefore, these medications have theoretic applications in the treatment of alopecia and disorders of hypopigmentation. We reviewed the literature to find original studies assessing the use of prostaglandin F2α analogs in these settings. Studies and reports were analyzed in regards to androgenic alopecia, alopecia areata, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, vitiligo, and hypopigmented scarring. Based on the results of these studies, and consideration of pathophysiologic mechanism, the most promising applications for prostaglandin F2α analogs include androgenic alopecia, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, and alopecia areata concurrently treated with corticosteroids.

Bimatoprost 0.01% in treatment-naïve patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension: an observational study in the Korean clinical setting.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates the efficacy and tolerability (ie, occurrence and severity of hyperemia) of bimatoprost 0.01% in treatment-naïve patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension in the Korean clinical setting. METHODS: In this multicenter, open-label, observational study, treatment-naïve patients with OAG, including patients with normal-tension glaucoma (NTG, defined as IOP ≤21 mm Hg), or ocular hypertension received bimatoprost 0.01% once daily. Hyperemia was assessed at baseline and weeks 6 and 12, graded by a masked evaluator using a photonumeric scale (0, +0.5, +1, +2, +3), and grouped as (0 to +1) and (+2 to +3). Shifts between groupings were reported as no change, improved ([+2 to +3] to [0 to +1]), or worsened ([0 to +1] to [+2 to +3]). Other adverse events were monitored. Mean IOP changes from baseline at weeks 6 and 12 were reported. Supplemental analyses were conducted for IOPs >21 versus ≤21 mm Hg. RESULTS: Of 295 treatment-naïve patients included in the intent-to-treat/safety population, 73 (24.7%) had baseline IOP >21 mm Hg (mean, 25.7 ± 5.0 mm Hg) and 222 (75.3%) had baseline IOP ≤21 mm Hg (mean, 16.3 ± 3.0 mm Hg); 96.3% had hyperemia graded none (36.3%) to mild (17.3%). At week 12, hyperemia was graded none to mild in 83.7% (n = 220). Worsening occurred in 12.3% of patients by week 6 and 12.7% by week 12. Small improvements occurred in 0.8% and 0.5% of patients at weeks 6 and 12, respectively. Hyperemia scores were generally low and the majority of patients had no change in severity during the study. Mean IOP at weeks 6 and 12 was reduced to 16.4 ± 4.0 mm Hg (-34.5%; P < 0.0001) and 16.7 ± 3.9 mm Hg (-32.0%; P < 0.001) in the baseline-IOP >21 mm Hg group versus 13.3 ± 2.6 mm Hg (-17.8%; P < 0.001) and 13.7 ± 2.8 mm Hg (-15.9%; P < 0.001) in the baseline-IOP ≤21 mm Hg group, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In treatment-naïve patients, bimatoprost 0.01% induced low shifts in worsening of hyperemia and significant reductions in IOP, regardless of baseline IOP. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT01594970.

Efficacy and tolerability of fixed-combination bimatoprost/timolol versus fixed-combination dorzolamide/brimonidine/timolol in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension: a multicenter, prospective, crossover study.

BACKGROUND: Fixed-combination ocular hypotensives have multiple advantages, but triple-therapy dorzolamide/brimonidine/timolol (dorz/brim/tim) is only available in Latin and South America, and information on its relative efficacy is limited. This study compares the efficacy and tolerability of fixed-combination bimatoprost/timolol (bim/tim) and dorz/brim/tim in Mexican patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. METHODS: In this investigator-masked, crossover study, patients with unmet target intraocular pressure (IOP) on once-daily bim/tim or twice-daily dorz/brim/tim received the opposite medication for 3 months before returning to their pre-baseline medication for 3 months. IOP was evaluated before and after morning instillation at months 2, 3, 5 and 6. Primary endpoints were mean IOP change and Ocular Surface Disease Index© (OSDI) score at each visit. The intent-to-treat population was the a priori analysis population, but due to the number of discontinuations, the per-protocol and intent-to-treat populations were used for the primary efficacy and sensitivity analyses, respectively. RESULTS: Seventy-eight and 56 patients were included in the intent-to-treat and per-protocol populations, respectively. At month 3, statistically significant IOP reductions from baseline were observed in the bim/tim (P < 0.01) and dorz/brim/tim (P < 0.0001) groups, regardless of assessment time. At month 6, patients returned to bim/tim exhibited no significant IOP increase (regardless of assessment time), but patients returned to dorz/brim/tim exhibited a statistically significant IOP increase (P < 0.001) when assessed before instillation of study treatment. Results were similar in both intent-to-treat and per-protocol analysis populations. In the per-protocol analysis, 70% of patients on bim/tim at month 3 had an IOP <14 mm Hg, which declined to 58% (P = 0.0061) at month 6 (ie, after 3 months of dorz/brim/tim treatment). In patients receiving dorz/brim/tim at month 3, 38% had an IOP <14 mm Hg, which remained comparable after return to bim/tim. OSDI scores and incidence of adverse events were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: In this first direct comparison of the efficacy of dorz/brim/tim and bim/tim, patients switched from dorz/brim/tim to bim/tim demonstrated improved/lower IOP; when returned to dorz/brim/tim, IOP increased to levels seen at study initiation, suggesting that once-daily bim/tim may have greater IOP-lowering efficacy. Both bim/tim and dorz/brim/tim were well tolerated with minimal ocular surface damage. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01737853 (registered October 9, 2012).

Late-day intraocular pressure-lowering efficacy and tolerability of travoprost 0.004% versus bimatoprost 0.01% in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension: a randomized trial.

BACKGROUND: Medications to control intraocular pressure (IOP) are frequently preserved using benzalkonium chloride (BAK), which can negatively affect the ocular surface. Data are needed to assess efficacy and safety of prostaglandin drugs preserved with and without BAK. The present study compared the efficacy and safety of BAK-free travoprost 0.004% (TRAV) and BAK 0.02%-preserved bimatoprost 0.01% (BIM) during late-day time points in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. METHODS: This was a 12-week, phase 4, randomized, investigator-masked, crossover study. 84 patients with IOP ≥24 and <36 mmHg were randomized 1:1 to receive once-daily TRAV or BIM for 6 weeks followed by an additional 6-week crossover period. IOP was measured at the end of each treatment period at 4, 6, and 8 pm. TRAV was considered noninferior to BIM if the upper limit of the 95% CI of the between-group difference in mean IOP was ≤1.5 mmHg. Adverse events were assessed throughout the study. RESULTS: One patient discontinued due to allergic conjunctivitis, and 2 patients with missing data were excluded; 81 patients were included in the per-protocol population (mean ± SD age, 58.3 ± 11.4 years; TRAV/BIM, n = 41; BIM/TRAV, n = 40). After 6 weeks, mean IOP with TRAV (17.4 ± 2.7 mmHg; change from baseline, -6.0 mmHg) was similar to BIM (17.2 ± 2.6 mmHg; change from baseline, -6.3 mmHg); the between-group difference was 0.22 mmHg (95% CI, -0.22 to 0.67). Thus, noninferiority of TRAV versus BIM was demonstrated. Mean IOP at each time point and mean and percentage IOP change from baseline were not significantly different between treatments. All treatment-emergent adverse events were mild to moderate. The incidences of mild ocular hyperemia with TRAV and BIM were 31% and 39%, respectively; moderate hyperemia was observed in 2% of patients receiving BIM. CONCLUSION: Late-day IOP-lowering efficacy of BAK-free TRAV was noninferior to that of BAK 0.02%-preserved BIM; both reduced baseline IOP by 25%. Both treatments were well tolerated, although a higher incidence of moderate ocular hyperemia was observed with BIM. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT01464424; registered November 1, 2011.