Latanoprost punctual plug delivery system is effective in glaucoma treatment

The latanoprost punctual plug delivery system (L-PPDS) is a safe and effective way of administering glaucoma medication, according to ocular company QLT.

A phase II trial was conducted on 95 patients and involved the upper and lower puncta for delivery of a daily drug load. The aim was to compare clinical outcomes between latanoprost and daily Xalatan eye drops.

The primary endpoint was the mean change in IOP from baseline at 2 weeks. The secondary endpoints were the mean change in IOP from baseline at 4 weeks and the mean percentage change in IOP from baseline at 2 and 4 weeks.

After 2 weeks of treatment the mean change in IOP was statistically significant at a baseline of -6.2 mmHg. Of the patients studied, 73% presented with an IOP reduction compared to baseline of 5 mmHg or more and 51% demonstrated a reduction of 6 mmHg or more. At 2 weeks the mean change in IOP baseline was statistically significant at -24.3%.

IOP also changed significantly after 4 weeks of L-PPDS. The mean change from baseline was -5.7 mmHg. Out of the patients, 60% showed a reduction of IOP vs baseline of 5 mmHg or higher.