Effect of 6-week washout period on intraocular pressure following chronic prostaglandin analogue treatment: a randomized controlled trial

From Eye Care to Hair Growth: Bimatoprost

BACKGROUND

Bimatoprost has emerged as a significant medication in the field of medicine over the past several decades, with diverse applications in ophthalmology, dermatology, and beyond. Originally developed as an ocular hypotensive agent, it has proven highly effective in treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Its ability to reduce intraocular pressure has established it as a first-line treatment option, improving management and preventing vision loss. In dermatology, bimatoprost has shown promising results in the promotion of hair growth, particularly in the treatment of alopecia and hypotrichosis. Its mechanism of action, stimulating the hair cycle and prolonging the growth phase, has led to the development of bimatoprost-containing solutions for enhancing eyelash growth.

AIM

The aim of our review is to provide a brief description, overview, and studies in the current literature regarding the versatile clinical use of bimatoprost in recent years. This can help clinicians determine the most suitable individualized therapy to meet the needs of each patient.

METHODS

Our methods involve a comprehensive review of the latest advancements reported in the literature in bimatoprost formulations, which range from traditional eye drops to sustained-release implants. These innovations offer extended drug delivery, enhance patient compliance, and minimize side effects.

RESULTS

The vast literature published on PubMed has confirmed the clinical usefulness of bimatoprost in lowering intraocular pressure and in managing patients with glaucoma. Numerous studies have shown promising results in dermatology and esthetics in promoting hair growth, particularly in treating alopecia and hypotrichosis. Its mechanism of action involves stimulating the hair cycle and prolonging the growth phase, leading to the development of solutions that enhance eyelash growth. The global use of bimatoprost has expanded significantly, with applications growing beyond its initial indications. Ongoing research is exploring its potential in glaucoma surgery, neuroprotection, and cosmetic procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Bimatoprost has shown immense potential for addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs through various formulations and advancements. Promising future perspectives include the exploration of novel delivery systems such as contact lenses and microneedles to further enhance drug efficacy and patient comfort. Ongoing research and future perspectives continue to shape its role in medicine, promising further advancements and improved patient outcomes.

Currently available prostanoids for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension: A review

Recent advancements in prostaglandin analogs (PGAs) have reinforced their role in managing intraocular pressure (IOP). Latanoprost excels in 24-h IOP control, while various PGAs offer similar effectiveness and side effects, generic PGAs perform as well as branded ones, and a notable IOP rise observed upon PGA discontinuation. Formulations with or without preservatives show comparable IOP reduction and adherence, often surpassing benzalkonium chloride (BAK)-preserved options. Emergent PGAs, such as latanoprostene bunod, fixed-dose netarsudil combined with latanoprost, and omidenepag Isopropyl, offer enhanced or non-inferior IOP reduction. The bimatoprost implant introduces a novel administration method with effective IOP reduction. These developments underscore ongoing progress in PGA-focused ophthalmological research. This article offers a comprehensive review of available prostanoid analogs and explores new developments.