The effect of betablockers with and without ISA on tonographic outflow facility

The response of two ophthalmic betablockers, Timolol (without ISA) and Pindolol (with marked ISA), on IOP and tonographic outflow facility was investigated in a single-blind clinical study on 20 patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. In two treatment groups, ten patients each, in a randomized order IOP and tonographic outflow facility measurements were performed before and 2 hrs after drug application. Timolol reduced IOP by 6.8 mm Hg and Pindolol eye drops by 4.5 mm Hg. Both topically applied betablockers did not influence tonographic facility of outflow. It is concluded that the intrinsic sympathomimetic activity of an ophthalmic betablocker has no effect on outflow facility of aqueous humor.