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Topical timolol decreases plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level
A L Coleman1, D L Diehl, H D Jampel
1Glaucoma Service, Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Baltimore, Md.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Topical timolol maleate eye drops may negatively impact lipid profiles. This study found it increased triglycerides and lowered high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, potentially increasing heart disease risk.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Oral beta-adrenergic antagonists are known to adversely affect plasma lipid profiles.
- The impact of topical beta-blockers, specifically timolol maleate, on lipid profiles is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether 0.5% topical timolol maleate affects plasma lipid profiles.
- To determine if topical timolol maleate causes similar adverse lipid changes as oral formulations.
Main Methods:
- An unmasked, self-controlled study involving 40 healthy volunteers.
- Subjects used 0.5% topical timolol maleate for an average of 76 days.
- Fasting plasma lipid levels (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides) were measured before and after treatment.
Main Results:
- Mean total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels showed no significant change.
- Triglyceride levels increased by 12% on average.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels decreased by 9%, and the total cholesterol-HDL ratio increased by 8%.
Conclusions:
- Topical timolol maleate treatment was associated with unfavorable changes in plasma lipid profiles.
- The observed decrease in HDL cholesterol and increase in the total cholesterol-HDL ratio may elevate coronary artery disease risk.
- Further research is warranted to assess the long-term cardiovascular implications of topical timolol maleate.