Bimatoprost: a unique compound that in its nonhydrolyzed form is a prostamide and hydrolyzed form has prostaglandin receptor activity, for glaucoma and cosmetic indications

Abstract

For over a decade bimatoprost has been available to use for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). Bimatoprost is available as a single agent in two different concentrations for reducing IOP and also in a fixed-combination with timolol. It is also being evaluated for a sustained-release drug for reducing IOP, and, additionally, it has broadened application potential for cosmetic indications, including enhancing eyelash growth. Despite significant competitive market pressure from other prostanoid drugs on the market, bimatoprost grew to become a commonly used glaucoma drug. Many eye care providers feel, and studies support, bimatoprost is as strong or stronger in its effect in reducing IOP for glaucoma patients.

Keywords::

• bimatoprost
• diurnal IOP
• eyelash growth
• fixed-combination of bimatoprost/timolol
• glaucoma medication
• IOP fluctuation
• periorbital pigmentation
• periorbital prostaglandin-associated fat loss
• prostaglandin analog
• prostamide

Financial & competing interests disclosure

ER Craven is a paid consultant to Allergan, Inc. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Key issues

• Bimatoprost 0.03 and 0.01% are available as drops to lower intraocular pressure.

• Mechanism of action may be a great strength of this compound. A duality of receptors is possible; both a prostamide and prostanoid receptor may be activated.

• Bimatoprost demonstrates significant intraocular pressure reduction.

• Timolol, dorzolamide and brimonidine have been shown to be additive.

• Hyperemia is reduced by 0.01% and in the fixed combination (0.03%) with timolol.

• Eyelash growth can be enhanced with 0.03%.

• Periorbital pigmentation and fat loss can be seen and appears to be reversible.

• Sustained-release delivery methods with intracameral implants and punctal plugs are under investigation for future delivery methods.

Notes