Inhibition of the ocular effects of sodium arachidonate by anti-inflammatory compounds.

Topical administration of aqueous solutions of sodium arachidonate to the eyes of rabbits increases intraocular pressure, constricts the pupil and increases both the protein and prostaglandin content of aqueous humor. Arachidonic acid itself dissolved in arachis oil is less effective than sodium arachidonate, although addition of polysorbate mono-oleate greatly increases the effects produced by arachidonic acid. Pretreatment with topically applied non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents prevents the ocular effects of sodium arachidonate, indomethacin being 2-4 times as potent as either indoxole or pirprofen. Dexamethasone was without effect in these experiments. The results suggested that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents deserve serious consideration for topical use in the treatment of ocular inflammation.