Iris and periocular adverse reactions to bimatoprost in Japanese patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension

Abstract

Purpose

To prospectively investigate adverse reactions to bimatoprost in Japanese patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. We also examined patient attitudes to adverse reactions via a questionnaire.

Methods

Fifty-two Japanese patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension were enrolled. Iridial, eyelid, and eyelash photographs were taken before and at 6 months after bimatoprost treatment. Increase in eyelid pigmentation, iridial pigmentation, eyelash growth and bristle, and vellus hair of the lid was assessed from the photographs. Questionnaires completed by patients provided insight into their subjective judgment of adverse reactions.

Results

Increase in eyelash bristle (53.8%), iris pigmentation (50.0%), eyelash growth (46.2%), vellus hair of the lid (40.4%), and eyelid pigmentation (7.7%) was evident after bimatoprost treatment. The objective and subjective assessments were in agreement in terms of increase in eyelash bristle, eyelash growth, and increase in vellus hair of the lid.

Conclusion

Most patients were conscious of these adverse reactions. Before administering bimatoprost, sufficient explanation of potential adverse reactions should be provided; after initiating treatment, careful observation is required.

Keywords:

• bimatoprost
• adverse reaction
• eyelid pigmentation
• changes in eyelashes
• iris pigmentation

Disclosure

The authors declare no conflicts of interest in relation to this paper.