Generic latanoprost may yield improved adherence for open-angle glaucoma treatment

Patients with open-angle glaucoma who switch from a brand-name prostaglandin analogue to generic latanoprost may adhere better to medical treatment, according to a study.

The longitudinal cohort analysis compared adherence rates by 8,427 patients during the 18 months before the availability of generic latanoprost and the 18 months after the generic treatment became available. The adherence of patients who continued use of brand-name prostaglandins was compared with those who switched to generic latanoprost after it became available.

The subset of patients who switched to generic latanoprost had increased mean and median adherence levels vs. those who continued taking brand-name prostaglandins. Those who continued taking brand names were 28% less likely to have an improved adherence rate and 39% more likely to have a reduced adherence rate.

Improved adherence of 25% or more after the generic drug was introduced was associated with higher monthly medication copay before the generic was introduced, lower copay after the generic was introduced and black race.

“When clinicians know or suspect that a patient is struggling with adherence, attempts should be made, whenever feasible, to switch such patients to generic glaucoma medications,” the study authors said. “This can be particularly helpful for patients with high copays and racial minorities.” – by Kristie L. Kahl

Disclosure: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.