Abstract

P 211

Treatment of patients with ocular hypertension and glaucoma with Tafluprost 0.0015%: results of a multi-center open-label observational study

Anton Hommer1, Ulrich Thelen2, Osman Ramez3, Friedemann Kimmich4
1Wien, Austria; 2Augenarztpraxis, Münster; 3Itzehoe; 4eyecons, Pfinztal

Objective
Efficacy, tolerability and safety of the preserved and preservative-free formulation of the new prostaglandin Tafluprost 0.0015% were investigated in a broad patient population.
Methods
Data were collected in a non-interventional prospective multicenter observational open label study. Patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension for whom a change from pre-treatment regimen either to the preserved or preservative-free formulation of Tafluprost 0.0015% was indicated were included in the study. IOP readings were recorded for each eye at baseline (previous therapy), 4-6 weeks, and 12 weeks after changing medical treatment to the preserved or preservative-free formulation of Tafluprost 0.0015%. Dosing was once-daily. We analyzed the change in IOP over the study period for all patients as well as for specific pre-treatment subgroups. In addition subjective symptoms such as irritation, burning, stinging,  foreign body sensation, dryness and itching and also objective ocular signs such as conjunctival hyperaemia, tearing and blepharitis were determined prior and 12 weeks after change in medical therapy to Tafluprost 0.0015%. Comfort was measured using a 4 step scale ranging from 'very satisfied' to 'unsatisfied'. All adverse events were recorded.
Results
Both formulations of Tafluprost 0.0015% lowered IOP significantly compared to pre-treated baseline IOP levels. The change in medical treatment from preserved pre-treatment regimens to the new preservative-free Tafluprost improved both, subjective symptoms and objective clinical signs. Comfort was rated as 'very satisfied' and 'satisfied' by the vast majority of patients. Few adverse events occurred during the treatment period.
Conclusions
Our results show that both formulations of the new prostaglandin Tafluprost (preserved and preservative-free) were effective, well tolerated and safe in a broad patient population. Especially the preservative-free formulation of Tafluprost was beneficial by improving ocular symptoms and clinical signs.

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