Therapeutic potential of prostaglandin analogues in glaucoma.

One of the most recent contributions to the therapeutic arsenal available for the treatment of glaucoma is the prostaglandin (PG) analogues. They represent a new class of ocular hypotensive drugs, targeting the uveoscleral outflow of ocular aqueous humour. Two drugs, latanoprost and unoprostone, are presently commercially available. In terms of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, latanoprost is the most powerful drug in clinical use today. The once daily dosing promotes compliance. Additional effect is achieved in combination with other hypotensive drugs, including those that increase trabecular outflow facility. The most frequent side effect is increased iris pigmentation that seems to be irreversible. A low frequency of cystoid macular oedema has been reported, predominantly in patients whose blood-retinal barrier (BRB) is compromised. Systemic side effects are rare. The experience with unoprostone is still much less than that with latanoprost. The ocular hypotensive mechanism of action of unoprostone is not well documented but an increase in uveoscleral outflow may be at least a part of its mode of action. Systemic side effects are rare and the ocular side effects seem to be mild. The ocular hypotensive effect is less than that of latanoprost and may not be suitable for monotherapy. It is widely accepted that the IOP alone is not responsible for the development of glaucomatous visual defects. It remains to be seen if this class of drugs will preserve vision in glaucoma patients better than other classes. More PG analogues are under development for potential clinical use.