Hypotensive effect of juxtascleral administration of anecortave acetate in different types of glaucoma

To evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect of anecortave acetate, delivered by anterior juxtascleral depot injection, in eyes with various forms of glaucoma.

A prospective, interventional case series was carried out. Twenty-eight uncontrolled glaucoma patients received a single injection of anecortave acetate (24 to 30 mg) in 1 selected eye under topical anesthesia. Postinjection assessments were scheduled at week 1 and months 1, 2, and 3.

Mean ± SD age of patients was 58.2 ± 18.6 years. Twelve patients had open-angle glaucoma and 16 had angle-closure glaucoma. Uveitic/steroid-induced glaucoma was the most frequent diagnosis (11 patients, 39.2%). Mean baseline IOP was 30.7 ± 9.3 mm Hg. Mean IOP at week 1 and months 1, 2, and 3 were 21.3 ± 6.1, 19.8 ± 6.3, 20.9 ± 7.3, and 21.7 ± 6.8 mm Hg, respectively. Significant mean IOP reductions were observed at week 1 and months 1, 2, and 3 (29.3%, 33.8%, 30.1%, and 27.2%, respectively; P<0.001).

A single administration of anecortave acetate by anterior juxtascleral depot injection seems to result in a significant IOP reduction (compared with baseline) for at least 3 months in eyes with different types of glaucoma. No injection-related or drug-related serious adverse events were observed. Additional studies are required to better determine the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of this alternative treatment.