Preserved Prostaglandin Analog and Ocular Surface Disorders in Open-Angle Glaucoma

Purpose: Long-term use of topical ocular medications may affect ocular surface health. Purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of BAK-preserved prostaglandin analog (bimatoprost 0.03%) treatment on the ocular surface health in patients with newly diagnosed POAG. Methods: 40 newly diagnosed POAG patients were included in this prospective study. Intraocular pressure (IOP), tear break-up time (TBUT), and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) were assessed at baseline and 3-month after starting treatment with BAK-preserved bimatoprost 0.03% ophthalmic solution. Results: IOP decreased in all patients from baseline to 3- month final visit (24.70±1.65mmHg versus 15.68±1.68mmHg). Mean TBUT decreased from 10.71±1.85 seconds at baseline to 7.25±1.21 seconds at 3-month final visit (p 0.001). Mean OSDI score increased from 31.63±18.48 to 44.41±16.48 (p 0.001). Conclusions: BAK-preserved bimatoprost 0.03% is an effective medication in newly diagnosed POAG patients, but its long-term use may negatively influence ocular surface health by disrupting the tear film stability.