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Updated: Nov 22, 2025

Full-Circle Cauterization of Limbal Vascular Plexus for Surgically Induced Glaucoma in Rodents
Published on: February 15, 2022
[Rho kinase inhibitors as new local therapy option in primary open angle glaucoma]
C Erb1, K Konieczka2
1Augenklinik am Wittenbergplatz, Kleiststr. 23-26, 10787, Berlin, Deutschland. erb.glaukom@gmail.com.
Rho-kinase inhibitors are a new class of glaucoma medications offering effective intraocular pressure reduction comparable to existing treatments. While generally well-tolerated, further clinical studies are needed to confirm their broader therapeutic effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Rho-kinase inhibitors represent a novel therapeutic class for glaucoma treatment.
- Approved in Japan (2014) and the USA (2017), these agents are now anticipated in Europe.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on Rho-kinase inhibitors for glaucoma therapy.
- To present the efficacy and safety profiles of ripasudil and netarsudil.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed.
- Included studies focused on ripasudil, netarsudil, and the netarsudil/latanoprost combination.
Main Results:
- Ripasudil and netarsudil demonstrate intraocular pressure lowering comparable to timolol and latanoprost.
- The netarsudil/latanoprost combination achieved a target pressure below 15 mmHg in 32% of patients.
- Conjunctival hyperemia (53-65%) is the most frequent side effect; systemic effects are rare.
Conclusions:
- Rho-kinase inhibitors offer a valuable new option for glaucoma management, potentially aiding in achieving target intraocular pressure.
- Additional clinical research is necessary to validate the experimentally observed pleiotropic effects of these inhibitors.
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