Contrast sensitivity improves after brimonidine therapy in primary open angle glaucoma: a case for neuroprotection. Issue 12 (5th December 2003)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Evans, D W; Hosking, S L; Gherghel, D; Bartlett, J D
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 87:Issue 12(2003)
• Page Start: 1463
• Page End: 1465
• Publication Date: 2003-12-05
• Subjects: primary open angle glaucoma -- brimonidine -- timolol -- contrast sensitivity -- neuroprotection; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.87.12.1463
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: To determine the visual outcome following initiation of brimonidine therapy in glaucoma. Methods: 16 newly diagnosed previously untreated glaucoma patients were randomly assigned to either timolol 0.5% or brimonidine 0.2%. Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity (CS), visual fields, intraocular pressure (IOP), blood pressure, and heart rate were evaluated at baseline and after 3 months. Results: IOP reduction was similar for both groups (p<0.05). Brimonidine improved CS; in the right eye at 6 and 12 cpd (p = 0.043, p = 0.017); in the left eye at 3 and 12 cpd (p = 0.044, p = 0.046). Timolol reduced CS at 18 cpd in the right eye (p = 0.041). There was no change in any other measured parameters. Conclusion: Glaucoma patients exhibit improved CS on initiation of brimonidine therapy.