Effects of topical antiglaucoma eye drops on prostaglandin E(2)-induced aqueous flare elevation in pigmented rabbits

PURPOSE: To evaluate the role of topical instillation of some antiglaucoma agents on experimental elevation of aqueous flare induced by prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) in pigmented rabbits. METHODS: Transcorneal diffusion of PGE(2) (25 microg/mL or 7.09 x 10(-2) mM) with the use of a glass cylinder was achieved to produce aqueous flare elevation in pigmented rabbits. An antiglaucoma agent was topically administered before application of PGE(2). Aqueous flare was measured with a laser flare cell meter. RESULTS: A single instillation of apraclonidine 1.15%, two instillations of epinephrine 1.25%, two instillations of dipivefrin 0.1%, and two instillations and one instillation of dipivefrin 0.04% eye drops inhibited 98%, 96%, 87%, 73%, and 47% of PGE(2)-induced aqueous flare elevation, respectively. Timolol 0.5%, nipradilol 0.25%, dorzolamide 1%, and pilocarpine 2% eye drops had no effects on the increase of PGE(2)-induced flare. CONCLUSIONS: Apraclonidine, epinephrine, and dipivefrin eye drops inhibit PGE(2)-induced elevation of aqueous flare in pigmented rabbits.