New Medication Delivery Systems for Glaucoma

There is still no cure for glaucoma, but the past year has brought new advances in the treatment of Glaucoma.

It is estimated that 50% of glaucoma patients do not take their medication as prescribed, which has long been a challenge in terms of adherence and compliance.

Sustained-release glaucoma medications can improve treatment efficiency and adherence.

• Durysta-This is an FDA-approved dissolvable ocular implant that helps lower eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or elevated intraocular pressure. One implant can provide several months of control over intraocular pressure.
• iDoseTR This is another FDA-approved treatment that also lowers eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or high eye pressure. iDoseTR allows for long-term control of elevated intraocular pressure by continuously releasing medication directly inside the eye. The device is placed through a tiny incision smaller than that used for cataract surgery. For most patients, the procedure is painless and performed on an outpatient basis, typically resulting in a quick recovery. Patients can usually return to their regular activities within one to two days after the procedure.

With both devices, patients no longer need to worry about whether they have administered their eye drops.

Sources:

www.glaucomafoundation.org

www.durysta.com

www.idosetr.com

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