The ocular hypotensive effect of saffron extract in primary open angle glaucoma: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology
• Natural Product Research

Background:

• Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy with increasing incidence, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
• Oxidative stress is implicated in glaucoma pathogenesis, making antioxidants like saffron extract a potential treatment avenue.
• This study investigated the efficacy of aqueous saffron extract in managing intraocular pressure (IOP) in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of oral aqueous saffron extract on intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
• To assess saffron extract as an adjunct therapy to standard glaucoma medications.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study involving 34 POAG patients already on timolol and dorzolamide.
• Participants received either 30 mg/day oral aqueous saffron extract or a placebo for one month.
• Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured during treatment and after a one-month wash-out period.

Main Results:

• Saffron extract treatment led to a significant decrease in IOP after three weeks (10.9 ± 3.3 mmHg) and four weeks (10.6 ± 3.0 mmHg) compared to placebo (13.5 ± 2.3 mmHg and 13.8 ± 2.2 mmHg, respectively).
• The IOP-lowering effect was evident by week three and persisted through week four.
• No adverse side effects were reported in either the saffron or placebo groups during the study or wash-out period.

Conclusions:

• Oral aqueous saffron extract demonstrated a notable ocular hypotensive effect in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.
• The therapeutic benefits of saffron extract became apparent within three weeks of administration.
• Saffron extract may serve as a safe and effective adjunct therapy for managing POAG.