title: Controversy: Is Benzalkonium Chloride Necessary in Antiglaucoma Drops?
abstract: Medical therapy is the first-line option in glaucoma management, with benzalkonium chloride (BAC) being the most frequently used preservative in antiglaucoma medications. Its use is however, known to be associated with deleterious effects on the ocular surface. This review is an attempt to critically evaluate whether BAC really is indispensable for better bioavailability of antiglaucoma drugs and consequently, better IOP control. How to cite this article: Louati Y, Shaarawy T. Controversy: Is Benzalkonium Chloride Necessary in Antiglaucoma Drops? J Current Glau Prac 2012;6(3):104-107.
authors.affiliation: Clinical Fellow, University of Geneva Hospitals, Glaucoma Sector, Geneva Switzerland.
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Louati
authors.affiliation: Assistant Physician and Head, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva Glaucoma Sector, Geneva, Switzerland.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Shaarawy
keywords: BAK; Bioavailability; Ocular surface disease and glaucoma; Preservative free glaucoma medication.; Preservatives in glaucoma medication