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In the glaucoma disease the disturbed trabecular outflow results not only in an increase in the intraocular pressure (IOP) level, but also in an increase in the intraocular pressure fluctuations in the majority of patients. This induces a biomechanical stress that may damage the optic nerve head over time and may result in the typical glaucomatous excavation. Prostaglandin analogues show positive effects on both risk factors. They enhance the uveoscleral outflow of the aqueous humour, improve the trabecular outflow facility and probably the regulatory capacity of the trabecular meshwork itself. This dual mechanism might explain the strong IOP-lowering efficacy of the prostaglandins and their additional property to reduce IOP fluctuations leading to a general improvement of the aqueous humour dynamics. Therefore, it makes sense pharmacologically to combine prostaglandins with those medications that also reduce aqueous humour production. LA: German
Dr. T. Raber, Medizinisch-Wissenschaftliche Information, Pharmazentika Alcon Pharma GmbH, Germany. Thomas.Raber@Alconlabs.com
11.4 Prostaglandins (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)