Ophthalmology - Prostaglandin analogue eye drops

Question 1

Ophthalmology

Prostaglandin analogue eye drops: latanoprost, bimatoprost

Common indications

Answer 1

• As first-line agents to lower intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
• Prostaglandin analogues are generally preferred over topical β-blockers (the main alternative class) as they cause fewer systemic side effects.

Question 2

Ophthalmology

Prostaglandin analogue eye drops: latanoprost, bimatoprost

Mechanisms of action

Answer 2

• Elevated intraocular pressure (ocular hypertension) is a risk factor for open-angle glaucoma.
• Glaucoma is characterised by progressive optic nerve damage associated with visual field loss and eventually blindness.
• Associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Either way, lowering intraocular pressure reduces glaucoma progression.
• Analogues of prostaglandin F2α reduce intraocular pressure by increasing outflow of aqueous humour via the uveoscleral pathway. The exact mechanism for this is uncertain.