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A need exists for therapies limiting damage due to glaucoma that are independent of therapies that simply lower IOP. The aim of neuroprotection in glaucoma is to slow progression by blocking the mechanisms that lead to apoptosis. Many compounds have been described as neuroprotective, but the lack of availability of specific neuroprotectant compounds and the lack of clinical trials examining the benefits of neuroprotective agents for glaucoma limit their current therapeutic use. There are, however, many available natural compounds that offer the possibility of neuroprotective activity. This review summarizes the potential benefits of natural compounds in the treatment of eye disease.
Dr. R. Ritch, Einhorn Clinical Research Center, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, NY 10003, USA. ritchmd@earthlink.net
11.8 Neuroprotection (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)