OCULAR HYPOTENSIVE EFFECTS OF 0.5-PERCENT CARTEOLOL VERSUS 0.1-PERCENT TIMOLOL IN PATIENTS WITH ELEVATED INTRAOCULAR-PRESSURE (IOP)

Purpose The aim of the study was to compare 2 beta-blocker eye drops a t a low concentration: 0.5% carteolol and 0.1% timolol. Methods The st udy was designed as a random-order, double-blinded comparison of 2 par allel treatment groups. Fifty patients with early primary open angle g laucoma or high intraocular pressure were included. The treatment last ed 4 weeks, on the basis of 1 drop twice daily. Diurnal I.O.P. curve w as assessed with 4 measurements from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. before and after treatment. The 8.30 a.m. measure of the final assessment of I.O .P. curve was established prior to morning medication. The mean values of the 4 measures were compared. Results Both treatments reduced IOP by a comparable amount: 4.25 +/- 1.2 mmHg (mean +/- SD) for carteolol and 4.69 +/- 1.9 mmHg for timolol. The decrease of IOP was found at ev ery time of assessment, without any significant difference between tre atments. Both eye drops were very well tolerated. Conclusion The resul ts of this study show that the new beta-blocker eye drop solution 0.5% carteolol is effective for initial management of high intraocular pre ssure.