The effect of preservative free tafluprost on intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or primary open angle glaucoma

Purpose Since increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is the most important modifiable risk factor for the development and progression of glaucoma, potent and save IOP lowering therapy is of special importance. Preservative free prostaglandins offer a new treatment option using a potent topical drug without the disadvantages of a co‐administered preservatives. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 8 weeks treatment with preservative free tafluprost on IOP in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Methods 16 patients with either primary open angle glaucoma with an uncontrolled intraocular pressure ≥ 30mmHg or patients with ocular hypertension with an IOP ≥ 30mmHg were included in the present open pilot study. For patients who were already on antiglaucoma therapy, a washout period with a duration of 4 weeks was scheduled. IOP was measured at 8am and 6pm after the washout period as well as 4 and 8 weeks of after start of topical drug treatment. Results A total of 16 patients (age range 31‐76 years) were included in the study. After the 4 week washout period, mean IOP was 35.6±4.5mmHg at the morning and 32.9±5.4mmHg at the evening measurement. 4 weeks after treatment start, a decrease in IOP by ‐31%±12% to 24.4±4.6mmHg (p