The relationship between topical anti-glaucoma medications and the development of lacrimal drainage system obstruction.

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether any topical anti-glaucoma medications increase the risk of lacrimal drainage system obstruction or whether the presence of preservatives alone is sufficient to generate obstruction.

METHODS

This nested case-control study compared a group of patients with lacrimal duct obstruction who received topical anti-glaucoma medications to a control group of patients without obstruction.

RESULTS

The medical records of 255 patients with glaucoma who consulted the Oculoplastic Section with complaints of watery eyes were reviewed. Among these patients, 59 exhibited lacrimal drainage obstruction. Ninety-four percent of patients with lacrimal drainage obstruction used beta-blockers, and 41% used prostaglandin analogs. A logistic regression model was used to adjust for age, sex, and the use of other medications. No significant differences were observed regarding the topical anti-glaucoma medications used between groups.

CONCLUSION

No single topical anti-glaucoma medication demonstrated a stronger association with the development of lacrimal duct obstruction.