Save The Surface And You Save All

To compare the efficacy and tolerability of Bimatoprost 0.01%  (Benzalkonium chloride (BAK) free) and Bimatoprost 0.03% (with BAK) in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension

Out patient ophthalmology department of tertiaty healthcare

40 patients (20 in each group), age 40 or older with newly diagnosed mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension were started on Bimatoprost 0.01% (BAK free) (Group 1) and Bimatoprost 0.03% (with BAK) (Group 2). The patients were followed up for a period of 6 months and a subsequent evaluation of efficacy by recording intraocular pressure (IOP) by Goldmann applanation tonometry was done. The tolerability was assessed by grading conjunctival hyperemia, dry eyes, iris colour changes, hypertrichosis, and periorbitopathy.

Both the formulations were equally efficacious and well tolerated in all the patients. Although group 1 proved to be more acceptable due to the less frequent and less severe side effects profile.

BAK-free Bimatoprost 0.01% proved to be non-inferior to with-bak bimatoprost 0.03 %. The incidence of drug-induced ocular surface disease could be controlled by choosing the best-suited formulation of topical medications. Patients sensitive to preservatives or with a pre-existing ocular surface disease can be started on bak-free bimatoprost formulation in glaucoma patients, where the primary hurdle of the prolonged treatment is compliance.