Effect of topical 0.5% timolol on tear flow in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma as assessed by fluorophotometry.

Abstract

The question as to whether or not topical medication with beta blockers causes a decrease in tear production remains unanswered. Earlier studies using filter-paper strip tests have yielded contradictory results. In the present study, computerized objective fluorophotometry was used to assess the effect of topical medication with 0.5% timolol (b.i.d.; OU) on tear volume and tear production in 24 consecutive patients with bilateral primary open-angle glaucoma. Tear-film fluorophotometry was performed before treatment as well as at 7 days, 14 days, and 4-7 months after the onset of treatment. The results showed that by 7 days after the initiation of timolol treatment, both tear volume (-29%, P < 0.01) and tear secretion (-36%, P < 0.01) had decreased significantly. However, at both 14 days and 4-7 months after the onset of treatment, none of the values differed significantly from those obtained before treatment. Thus, topical antiglaucomatous treatment with 0.5% timolol eye drops leads to a transient decrease in tear production. This effect, however, lasts no longer than 14 days after the beginning of treatment.

• Authors: M Göbbels, T Mönks, M Spitznas
• Journal: German journal of ophthalmology (Ger J Ophthalmol) Vol. 2 Issue 4-5 Pg. 241-5 (Aug 1993) ISSN: 0941-2921 [Print] Germany
• PMID: 8220106 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Ophthalmic Solutions
• Timolol

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Fluorophotometry
• Glaucoma, Open-Angle (drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Ophthalmic Solutions
• Tears (metabolism)
• Timolol (administration & dosage)