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Dorzolamide improves IOP reduction, ocular and periocular hemodynamics
BARCELONA, Spain — Vasodilatory characteristics of dorzolamide may be beneficial in the management of glaucoma, according to a presentation here during the International Glaucoma Symposium.
Angelo Martinez, MD, said that aside from elevated intraocular pressure, local and systemic vascular alterations have also been identified in the development of glaucomatous damage.
Dorzolamide (Trusopt, Merck) is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (CAI) with a mechanism of action that is not completely understood, Dr. Martinez explained. He said that several studies have demonstrated the ability of CAIs to act also as a vasodilator.
According to Dr. Martinez, on periocular and retinal blood supply, dorzolamide has increased the capillary blood velocity in the retina. Additionally, dorzolamide has significantly increased ocular pulse amplitude in patients with glaucoma, patients with ocular hypertension and healthy volunteers.
Dr. Martinez has studied both the long- and short-term effects of dorzolamide on ocular blood flow with color doppler imaging. In his first paper, he said dorzolamide not only reduced IOP but also induced changes in ocular hemodynamics, improving blood perfusion of the eye.
Dr. Martinez noted the hemodynamic effects of dorzolamide remained for at least 36 hours after last dose administration. During the ensuing 3 years, vascular effects of the drug remained stable.