Dr.JASLEEN DHILLON

Dr. RAMANJIT SIHOTA, Dr. SWARNALI SEN, Dr. SAMIKSHA CHOUDHARY

Abstract

Aim: To study the role of pilocarpine eye drops in the current scenario by evaluating the impact of the commercial non-availability of these eye drops over a period of 9 months.

Method: A series of 70 patients each on pilocarpine nitrate 2% or its combination with timolol maleate 0.5% was studied during a 9-month period of non-availability of these drugs in the market. The intraocular pressure (IOP) with and without these drops, attainment of target IOP, and requirement of surgical intervention were noted.

Results: These drugs were started as the third or fourth line drug in 92% of the patients in eyes that were either poor surgical candidates, had multiple drug allergies or were being managed medically for an interim period. Eyes off pilocarpine had an increase in mean IOP of 3.2+/- 4.1 mmHg. 4.1% of patients needed to undergo surgical intervention.

Conclusion: Pilocarpine has a role in attaining target IOP in a select population and in reducing the need for surgical intervention.

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