[The intraocular pressure lowering effects of UF-021, a novel prostaglandin related compound, in animals].

The ophthalmic solution of UF-021, a novel prostaglandin (PG) related compound, was investigated for its intraocular pressure (IOP) reducing activity and local ocular side effects in different species of animals. UF-021 ophthalmic solution (0.03 to 0.24%), when topically applied to the eyes of rabbits, caused dose-dependent IOP reduction (2.8 to 5.2 mmHg), without transient IOP rise. Both in cats and monkeys, UF-021 ophthalmic solution (0.12%) elicited rapid, significant IOP reduction (ca. 9 mmHg and 2 mmHg, respectively), without any controversial, local ocular side effects being revealed. On the other hand, PGE2, PGF2 alpha-isopropyl ester all brought about marked increases in IOP prior to development of their IOP reducing activities. In addition, these primary PGs showed intense local ocular irritation, which presented a striking contrast with UF-021. Enhancement of IOP reducing activity, coupled with freedom from any significant ocular side effects, as described above, suggests that UF-021 ophthalmic solution could be promising as a new anti-glaucoma agent.