Clinical evaluation of the effect of diquafosol ophthalmic solution in glaucoma patients with dry eye syndrome

Abstract

To investigate the effects of diquafosol on intraocular pressure (IOP) and dry eye symptoms in glaucoma patients with dry eye syndrome (DES). This study evaluated a total of 138 glaucoma patients with DES who were treated with diquafosol ophthalmic solution (DIQUAS(®)). Before treatment and 1, 4, 12, 36, and 52weeks after treatment, IOP, ocular surface disease index (OSDI), tear film break-up time (BUT), Schirmer I test scores, fluorescein staining, conjunctival impression cytology, and adverse drug reactions were evaluated. Throughout the treatment period, the mean IOP for all the patients remained stable after treatment with diquafosol (15.4±2.8mmHg at baseline and 16.0±2.8mmHg at 52weeks). The mean OSDI score improved significantly at 4, 12, and 52weeks after diquafosol treatment. The BUT and Schirmer I test scores were significantly increased after diquafosol treatment. The Oxford scheme score was significantly decreased at 1, 4, 12, 36, and 52weeks after diquafosol treatment. A significant improvement in goblet cell density was observed after 4weeks of treatment with diquafosol. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 22 (15.9%) patients. There were no serious adverse drug reactions. Diquafosol was effective in improving objective and subjective symptoms and maintained a stable IOP in glaucoma patients with DES. Therefore, the addition of diquafosol treatment in glaucoma patients with DES or ocular surface side effects using anti-glaucoma medication may be beneficial.