Effects of Naftidrofuryl (Praxilene (R)) on optic nerve head blood flow inglaucomatous patient

Purpose To evaluate the effects of an S-2 specifique anti-serotonine agent (Naftidrofuryl) on the optic nerve head blood now in glaucomatous patient. Patients and Method 11 glaucomatous subjects were enrolled in the study. Af ter administration of 200 mg naftidrofuryl twice daily for 7 days: values o f optic nerve head blood now (Fonh), velocity and volume were recorded in t he temporal rim and cup of the optic nerve head. Blood flow measurements we re performed by laser doppler flowmetry at day 0 and day 7 before and one a nd two hours after drug administration. Results Our study showed a significant improvement of perfusion pressure (p =0.02) at day 7 and an increase of mean ophthalmique artery pressure (p=0.0 3). Discussion Our preliminary results on a small number of patients and a shor t follow-up indicate that the use of naftidrofuryl may enhance optic nerve head blood flow in glaucomatous patients. Further studies may confirm these results.