Changes in ocular signs and symptoms when switching from preserved latanoprost 0.005% to preservative‐free tafluprost 0.0015%: phase IIIb study in patients with open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This open‐label, multinational, phase IIIb study investigated the changes in ocular signs and symptoms when patients were switched from preserved latanoprost 0.005% to preservative‐free tafluprost 0.0015% (q.d. at 20:00) for 12 weeks. Methods Patients with open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who had received latanoprost for at least 6 months and had at least 2 ocular symptoms or one symptom and one sign were enrolled (n=158). Change from screening in ocular symptoms and signs were the main endpoints. Data from the 6‐week analysis are reported here. Results After switching to preservative‐free tafluprost, the proportion of patients with at least mild symptoms decreased: irritation/burning/stinging sensation 56.3% to 30.8%, foreign body sensation 46.8% to 25.6%, tearing 49.4% to 28.8%, itching 55.1% to 25.6% and dry‐eye sensation 64.6% to 35.3%. Decreases in proportions for abnormal signs were: tear break‐up time 94.9% to 76.9%, corneal fluorescein staining 81.6% to 52.6%, conjunctival fluorescein staining 84.2% to 53.8%, blepharitis 60.1% to 42.3%, conjunctival hyperaemia 84.2% to 69.2% and tear production 71.5% to 61.5%. All changes were statistically significant. Conclusion Switching patients from preserved latanoprost to preservative‐free tafluprost clearly reduced ocular symptoms and signs. Commercial interest ERRATA SHEET Correction to order of ocular symptoms and respective values for percentage of patients with abnormal values:After switching to preservative‐free tafluprost, the proportion of patients with at least mild symptoms decreased: irritation/burning/stinging sensation 56.3% to 30.8%, itching 46.8% to 25.6%, foreign body sensation 49.4% to 28.8%, tearing 55.1% to 25.6% and dry‐eye sensation 64.6% to 35.3%.[Correction added after online publication 4 Sept. 2008]