The effect of intracameral carbachol on intraocular pressure after cataract extraction

We randomly assigned 44 patients undergoing extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber lens implantation to two equal groups. The treatment group received intracameral carbachol during the operative procedure, and the control group received only balanced salt solution. Intraocular pressures were measured preoperatively, and at three, six, nine, and 24 hours postoperatively. Preoperatively, the mean pressures in the two groups were not significantly different. Three hours postoperatively, the mean pressure in the control group was 3.9 mm Hg above the preoperative baseline, whereas in the treatment group the mean pressure was 3.1 mm Hg below the baseline. This difference was statistically significant (P = .002). Similar differences between the two groups persisted throughout the study period.