Global Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Conference

Since inception in 1996, prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) have gained more attentions in recent years as the first line of drug for medical management of glaucoma. They can reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) more effectively than other topical anti glaucoma medications; have fewer systemic side effects & above all once a daily dosing advantage. Four PGAs are now commercially available in India namely Latanoprost, Bimatoprost, Travoprost & Tafluprost. Studies indicate that the IOP-lowering efficacies of the prostaglandin analogues are comparable, although each has a unique receptor-binding profile. The mechanism of action is same with each drug and the adverse reactions are similar. Here, we discuss the basic pharmacology, clinical uses, indications, contraindications and the advantages over other anti-glaucoma medications. We also discuss some uncommon but important side effects of these drugs, which may be clinically significant. We made a search on Medline and other databases about the recent developments on the PGAs since 2011 and report some interesting findings.