Twenty-four hour efficacy with preservative free tafluprost compared with latanoprost in patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension

Aim To compare 24 h intraocular pressure (IOP) control obtained with preservative free (PF) tafluprost 0.0015% versus branded preservative containing latanoprost 0.005% administered as first choice monotherapy in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). Methods This prospective, observer-masked, crossover study included consecutive newly diagnosed patients with POAG or OHT, and baseline IOP between 24 and 33 mm Hg. Qualifying patients underwent baseline untreated 24 h IOP monitoring in habitual positions, with Goldmann tonometry at times 10:00, 14:00, 18:00 and 22:00, and Perkins supine tonometry at times 02:00 and 06:00. They were then randomised to either latanoprost or tafluprost, administered in the evening, for 3 months and then switched to the opposite therapy for another 3 months. 24 h monitoring was repeated at the end of each treatment period. Results 38 patients completed the study. Mean untreated 24 h IOP (24.9 mm Hg) was significantly reduced with both prostaglandins (p