A double masked comparison of the intraocular pressure reducing effect of latanoprost 0.005% and 0.001% administered once daily in open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

AIM To compare the intraocular pressure (IOP) reducing effect of latanoprost 0.005% and 0.001%. METHODS Twenty four patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension were randomised into two groups. Twelve patients (group 1) were given latanoprost 0.005% once daily for 4 weeks and then latanoprost 0.001% once daily for the following 4 weeks. Twelve patients (group 2) were given latanoprost 0.001% once daily for 4 weeks and then latanoprost 0.005% for the following 4 weeks. RESULTS There was a significant IOP reduction from baseline in both groups on day 28 as well as on day 56. When the results from both groups were used for calculations, the mean IOP reduction from baseline after 4 weeks of treatment with latanoprost 0.005% (day 28 or 56) was 9.6 (SD 3.3) mm Hg (35.0%). After 4 weeks of treatment with latanoprost 0.001%, the IOP reduction (day 28 or 56) was 7.6 (3.4) mm Hg (27.7%). The difference in IOP reduction between the two concentrations was 2.0 (2.3) mm Hg (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Latanoprost 0.005% was more effective than latanoprost 0.001% in reducing IOP. Even the lower concentration was surprisingly effective, and potentially may be of importance for use in clinical practice. Furthermore, it is at present unknown whether the increase in iris pigmentation seen in certain patients treated with latanoprost 0.005% is dose dependent and might be less pronounced with latanoprost 0.001%. Long term studies with a larger number of patients are required in order to answer this question.