Timolol maleate 0.5% versus timolol maleate in gel forming solution 0.5% (Timolol GFS) in open angle glaucoma in India. Preliminary safety and efficacy study.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy and safety profile of Timolol maleate 0.5% versus Timolol gel forming solution (GFS) 0.5% in open angle glaucoma in Indian eyes.


METHODS
In a prospective crossover study 52 patients of open angle glaucoma, well controlled intraocular pressure (IOP) on 0.5% timolol maleate solution were switched over to timolol GFS once a day, after a washout period of one month. A diurnal IOP measurement was done after 6 weeks and compared with patients on timolol maleate 0.5% twice a day. In addition, side effects reported or observed were compared.


RESULTS
Statistically significant difference was not observed in ocular hypotensive effect of the two treatment. The side-effects in both the treatment groups were similar except for higher incidence of blurring of vision in patients on timolol GFS. The compliance was better with timolol GFS, but was not statistically significant.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study suggest that the more convenient 0.5% timolol in gel forming solution can be offered as an equally efficacious and well-tolerated alternative to twice daily 0.5% timolol solution in open angle glaucoma.
Kumar
Harsh
H
Dr. R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS, New Delhi, India.
Sudan
Rajeev
R
Sethi
Harinder S
HS
Sony
Parul
P
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D005260:Female; D005782:Gels; D005902:Glaucoma, Open-Angle / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D007429:Intraocular Pressure / Q000187:drug effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012449:Safety; D013999:Timolol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D005782:Gels; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D013999:Timolol