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Many categories of both natural and synthetic compounds have been reported to have neuroprotective activity. These include not only antioxidants, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists, inhibitors of glutamate release, calcium channel blockers, polyamine antagonists, and nitric oxide synthase inhibitors, but cannabinoids, aspirin, melatonin, and vitamin B-12. The lack of availability of specific neuroprotectant compounds in the USA, and the lack of clinical trials examining the benefits of neuroprotective agents for glaucoma, currently limit the use of these agents. This article provides a short overview of the concept of neuroprotection as it applies to glaucoma and suggests the possibility of neuroprotective activity that might be provided by compounds that are presently easily available.
Dr. R. Ritch, Glaucoma Services, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, 310 East 14th Street, New York, NY 10003, USA
11.8 Neuroprotection (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)