Clinical Benefits of Preservative-Free Treatment for Glaucoma with a Focus on Preservative-Free Latanoprost.

PURPOSE: To highlight the clinical benefits of preservative-free topical therapies in the management of glaucoma, with a focus on preservative-free latanoprost, and their role in improving ocular surface health and long-term treatment outcomes.

METHODS

A targeted literature search was conducted through May 30, 2024, to identify studies evaluating the efficacy, safety, and patient outcomes associated with preservative-free latanoprost (Monoprost®/Iyuzeh™, Laboratoires Théa, France).

RESULTS

Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive disease and the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally, with prevalence expected to rise as the US population ages. Most patients begin with topical eye drops-primarily prostaglandin analogs-to reduce intraocular pressure, often requiring lifelong treatment. However, chronic use of preserved formulations, especially those containing benzalkonium chloride, is associated with ocular surface disease, discomfort, and reduced adherence. Preservative-free topical therapies offer equivalent intraocular pressure-lowering efficacy to preserved alternatives, while significantly improving tolerability, reducing ocular surface disease symptoms, and minimizing conjunctival inflammation that may complicate future surgical interventions. In Europe, preservative-free therapies are well established in treatment guidelines. In the US, preservative-free latanoprost 0.005% (Iyuzeh) was approved in 2022, providing a new option for patients sensitive to preservatives or with coexisting ocular surface conditions. Advancements in multidose preservative-free packaging and sustained-release delivery systems further enhance the potential for improved adherence and long-term disease control.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights the benefits of preservative-free topical glaucoma therapies and includes a targeted review of preservative-free latanoprost 0.005%. Recent technologic advancements including multidose preservative-free delivery systems and sustained-release drug delivery approaches are also discussed.