Adverse effects of topical antiglaucoma drugs on the ocular surface

Purpose : This study was designed to determine the effect of long‐term antiglaucoma topical medication on the ocular surface; measuring basal Schirmer’s and tear break‐up time tests using conjunctival impression cytology. Methods : The ocular surfaces of 30 control subjects (group 1), 24 primary open‐angle glaucoma patients treated with 0.5% betaxolol hydrochloride (group 2), 27 primary open‐angle glaucoma patients treated with 0.5% timolol maleate (group 3) and 26 primary open‐angle glaucoma patients treated with 0.5% betaxolol and 1% dipivefrin hydrochloride (group 4) were evaluated. Basal Schirmer’s and tear break‐up time tests were measured and ocular surface changes were determined by impression cytology. Impression cytology specimens of each group were graded and scored in the range 0–3 according to Nelson’s method. Results : Patients in groups 2, 3 and 4 showed statistically significant fewer normal basal Schirmer’s tests (wettability) and tear break‐up time tests (P < 0.01). Also, the conjunctival impression cytology scores were significantly higher in groups 2, 3 and 4 than in group 1 (P < 0.01). Conclusions : The conclusion was that it is possible that conjunctival surface and tear film function change after the long‐term use of antiglaucoma medication.