Efficacy and safety of topical BAK-free travoprost 0.004% versus BAK-preserved travoprost 0.004% in the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma: a comparative study at a tertiary care hospital

Background: Prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG); however, these medications may affect the ocular surface and elicit ocular discomfort when preserved with benzalkonium chloride (BAK). Hence the above study was taken to evaluate the benefit of BAK-free formulations of travoprost. The objectives of the study were to compare the efficacy, safety of topical BAK-free travoprost 0.004% versus BAK-preserved travoprost 0.004% in patients with primary open angle glaucoma.Methods: 40 patients with POAG who fulfilled the inclusion /exclusion criteria were randomised into two groups of 20 each to receive BAK-free travoprost 0.004% or BAK-preserved travoprost once daily in the evening. Efficacy was measured in terms of reduction in IOP monitored at 4, 8 and 12 weeks from baseline. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire was used to assess the ocular surface symptoms. Safety was assessed by monitoring treatment emergent adverse drug reactions (ADRs).Results: Both the study medications were effective in reducing IOP when compared to baseline. Mean IOP reduction from baseline to week 12 was 11±3mmHg (p